Two deaf Montreal women killed by train while vacationing in Portugal

Guylaine Boulanger, aged 62, and Elise Benard, aged 66, were near Baqueiros station in Mesa Frio, about 80 kilometers east of Porto, when the accident occurred. According to CTV News, nearby residents said the train conductor sounded his horn and applied the brakes upon spotting the women on the tracks, but was unable to stop in time. Two other people who were with them were not injured and were taking photos when the incident occurred.

Their friend from Montreal, Tobi-Lynne Payne, described the pair as avid travelers and beloved members of the deaf community.

“I was crying yesterday,” Payne said, per the outlet. “My friends texted me like all day. I was crying so hard because they’re good friends of mine. It’s like a freak accident. I couldn’t believe it.”

Global Affairs Canada confirmed the deaths on Sunday, telling CTV News that “Consular officials are in contact with local authorities and are in contact with the families involved to provide consular assistance.” No further details have been released regarding their deaths due to privacy concerns.

This marks the second incident this month in which Quebecers died while vacationing in Portugal. Earlier this month, a man and his wife were among 16 people killed in a funicular derailment in Lisbon. The couple had been celebrating the husband's birthday on the final day of their trip when the derailment occurred.