On a fateful day in 1926, a passenger train traveling between the towns of Heredia and Tibás met a disastrous fate as it plummeted from a bridge spanning the Río Virilla. The train was heavily loaded with passengers, many of whom were local residents returning from work or leisure activities. Eyewitnesses reported shocking scenes as the train lost stability, leading to its abrupt descent. The bridge, believed to have structural weaknesses, could not withstand the load, resulting in the tragic collapse that night. Emergency responders rushed to the scene, trying to assist the injured and recover the deceased, but the sheer scale of the accident overwhelmed the local authorities.The aftermath saw an outpouring of grief from families and friends of the victims, leading to calls for improved safety standards on rail infrastructure across the country. Investigations revealed that neglect in the maintenance of railway lines and bridges had been pervasive, sparking a nationwide conversation about transportation safety. The Costa Rican government quickly implemented reforms to address these concerns and prevent future accidents, acknowledging the urgent need for safer travel conditions. The accident not only highlighted the existing flaws in rail infrastructure but also signaled a pivotal moment for the Costa Rican railway system, which had been the backbone of transport and commerce in the region. With this accident, the first of its kind, the nation recognized the necessity of establishing reliable safety protocols and infrastructure maintenance guidelines.In the wake of the incident, memorial services and vigils were held to honor the lives lost. Survivors shared their harrowing experiences, and public sentiment leaned towards a demand for accountability. As investigations concluded, significant reforms in railway safety practices were launched to ensure continuous monitoring and maintenance, which had significant implications for the future of transportation in Costa Rica.