Tragic Lisbon Funicular Crash Claims British Theatre Director and Partner

Sat Sep 13 2025 12:16:47 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

British theatre director Kayleigh Smith and her partner Will Nelson lost their lives in a funicular crash in Lisbon, among 16 victims. The incident has prompted tributes and a national day of mourning in Portugal.

The Lisbon funicular crash on Wednesday resulted in the deaths of 16 people, including British theatre director Kayleigh Smith and her partner, drama lecturer Will Nelson. Tributes have poured in for the victims, with a national day of mourning declared in Portugal. The investigation into the cause of the crash is underway, as inspections are planned for the city's funiculars.

Theatre director Kayleigh Smith and her partner Will Nelson, a drama lecturer, have been named as British victims of the Lisbon funicular crash.

MADS Theatre in Macclesfield posted a tribute on Friday acknowledging their deaths, highlighting Ms. Smith's impact as a 'dear friend to many who will be greatly missed.'

The Glória funicular, a popular tourist attraction, derailed and crashed into a building on Wednesday, killing 16 people total. Among the deceased are nationals from various countries including Portugal, South Korea, Switzerland, Canada, Ukraine, France, and the US.

The UK Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer, expressed his sorrow over the incident, stating his thoughts are with the families affected. He assured that the UK stands united with Portugal during this difficult period.

The cause of the crash remains unknown. The public transport operator, Carris, announced that all funiculars in the area would be inspected following the incident, which took place at around 18:15 local time. Over 60 rescue personnel responded to the crash site.

Initial reports placed the death toll at 17, but this number has since been revised down to 16, with one individual initially presumed dead later found to be in hospital.

Portugal's Prime Minister, Luís Montenegro, described the incident as 'one of the biggest human tragedies of our recent history' and declared a national day of mourning.

The Glória funicular, operational since 1885, serves as an essential transportation link through the hilly terrain of Lisbon, making it a favorite among both locals and tourists.