Pope Benedict sends condolences to train crash victims' families

photo - PAP/Andrzej Grygiel.

“It is with pain [I received] the news of the train crash, which happened on Saturday evening in Szczekociny near Zawiercie,” Pope Benedict writes in a telegram to Archbishop Jozef Michalik, chairman of the Conference of Polish Bishops.

Benedict XVI assured that he is praying for the victims of the tragedy and for their families.

The Pope also wished the many injured in the disaster a quick return to health.

“To all of you I give my apostolic blessing," the Pontiff writes.

Poland is currently in the second day of national mourning, which was declared by President Bronislaw Komorowski after the crash, which has been described as Poland's worst rail disaster in 20 years.

Forty four people remain in 15 hospitals, where they are being treated for an assortment of injuries.

The most serious injuries suffered in the crash were broken arms and legs, fractures of the spine, pelvis and facial and internal injuries.

Three of the most seriously injured have been placed in a drug-induced coma and their condition is said to be “critical but stable”.

One 29 year-old woman had to have a leg amputated.

A signalman is being charged with crimes connected to the crash after two trains collided head on. (pg)

source: PAP