Spain's snap election recast by latest train disaster, Sánchez defends safety record

■ Steady

Spain train crash death toll reaches at least 69 as election focus turns to safety

The death toll from Wednesday's high-speed train collision in Toledo province rose to at least 69, and on Thursday King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia visited the injured at Toledo University Hospital, where 15 people are in intensive care. Audio recordings published Thursday appear to show one train was cleared to move although another ahead had stalled. On Friday, reports said the crash has recast next month's snap general election around Pedro Sánchez's government safety record, which he is defending.

• At least 69 people died in the crash at Urda, Toledo, and 15 of the injured are in intensive care.
• Transport minister said on Wednesday an "inexplicable" decision by traffic control operators sent one train toward another stopped miles ahead.
• Far-right demonstrators clashed with police in Madrid as anger grew over the crash.
• Spanish football postponed 24 Copa del Rey matches.