Mexico City metro overpass collapse leaves at least 23 people dead

A metro overpass has partially collapsed in Mexico City leaving at least 23 people dead and 70 injured.

The incident in the south of Mexico's capital happened at 10.30pm local time.

Mexico City Mayor Claudia Sheinbaum, who had rushed to the scene of the accident, said a "support beam gave way".

The collapse led to a train falling downwards with cars below trapped underneath the rubble.

Dozens of rescuers were seen searching through the remnants of the collapsed overpass - which was about five metres above the road.

Emergency services cordoned off the scene as friends and relatives gathered near to the site of the incident.

‘A terrible tragedy’

Mexican foreign minister Marcelo Ebrard wrote on Twitter: "What has happened on the metro today is a terrible tragedy."

He added: "Of course the causes should be investigated and those responsible should be identified. I repeat that I am entirely at the disposition of authorities to contribute in whatever way is necessary."

Serious accidents on Mexico City’s metro

The Mexico City metro has had at least two serious accidents since its inauguration half a century ago.

In March of last year, a collision between two trains at the Tacubaya station left one passenger dead, injuring 41 people.

In 2015, a train that did not stop on time crashed into another at the Oceania station, injuring 12 people.

A message from the editor:

Thank you for reading. NationalWorld is a new national news brand, produced by a team of journalists, editors, video producers and designers who live and work across the UK. Find out more about who’s who in the team, and our editorial values. We want to start a community among our readers, so please follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, and keep the conversation going.