British Couple Remembered After Fatal Lisbon Funicular Crash

A tragic accident in Lisbon has claimed the lives of three British nationals, including theatre director Kayleigh Smith and her partner, Will Nelson, a lecturer at Manchester’s Arden School of Theatre. The couple was among the fatalities in a funicular crash that occurred on the evening of March 13, 2024, when the popular tourist attraction derailed in the heart of the Portuguese city. A total of 16 individuals lost their lives in this incident, which has been described as one of the most significant tragedies in recent Portuguese history.

Following the crash, local authorities confirmed that the deceased included five Portuguese nationals, two Canadians, two South Koreans, one American, one French citizen, one Swiss national, and one Ukrainian. In addition to the fatalities, 21 others sustained injuries, with five individuals reported in serious condition.

Tributes have poured in for Smith and Nelson from their community in Macclesfield. Tim Roca, the local Member of Parliament, expressed his sorrow over the loss of the couple, stating, “I was deeply saddened to learn that two much-loved members of our Macclesfield community… were among those who lost their lives in Wednesday’s tragic funicular crash.” Roca highlighted Smith’s profound impact on the theatre community, noting her talent and dedication in every production she directed at MADS Theatre.

Hours before the accident, Smith shared images on social media capturing their initial moments in Lisbon, accompanied by the caption, “Churches and castles, tiles and trams.” This joyful post stands in stark contrast to the sorrow that has enveloped their friends and families since the disaster.

MADS Theatre issued a heartfelt statement mourning the loss of both individuals. The tribute described Smith as “a valued member of our society” and acknowledged her significant contributions to the arts in the North West. As an award-winning director and actress, she also held various positions within the theatre, including vice-chair and head of tech. “She was a dear friend to many and will be greatly missed,” the statement read.

Nelson’s commitment to fostering creativity and inspiring students was also acknowledged. Roca emphasized that his absence would be deeply felt among colleagues and students at Arden School of Theatre, where he played a vital role in nurturing future talents.

In response to the tragedy, a spokesman for Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer expressed condolences, stating he was “deeply saddened” by the deaths of the British nationals. The Prime Minister’s office confirmed that they stand united with Portugal during this difficult period. The Foreign Office is providing support to the families impacted by the incident.

The Gloria funicular, which has operated for 140 years, was carrying a full load of passengers when it derailed. This popular mode of transport connects Restauradores Square in central Lisbon to the Bairro Alto area. The funicular features two yellow carriages that travel along a steep incline, with journeys typically lasting about three minutes. Eyewitness reports indicate that the derailment resulted in one of the carriages crashing into a nearby building at a bend in the road.

Portuguese Prime Minister Luís Montenegro referred to the incident as “one of the biggest tragedies of our recent past,” reflecting the shock and grief experienced by the nation. As investigations continue into the cause of the derailment, the focus remains on supporting the families of the victims and honoring the memory of those who lost their lives in this tragic event.