Spanish train driver can’t explain why he crashed

In this July 25, 2013 file photo, a rail personnel worker checks the cabin of a derailed train following an accident in Santiago de Compostela, Spain. AP

MADRID — Courtroom video shows the driver of the train that derailed in northwestern Spain, killing 79 people, admitting he was traveling at twice the speed limit when he approached a treacherous turn — but saying he can’t explain why.

Francisco Jose Garzon Amo says everything was “going fine” until the curve was upon him, and then thinking: “Oh my God, the curve, the curve, the curve, I won’t make it.”

Asked why he hadn’t reduced speed, Garzon appears confused and says, “I can’t explain it.”

The edited video of Sunday night’s court session in Santiago de Compostela, where the accident occurred, was released Thursday by Spain’s ABC newspaper. Two court officials said the video appeared authentic. They spoke only on condition of anonymity because the video has not been officially released.