Two archeologists from Quebec were identified as victims in a tragic streetcar accident in Lisbon that claimed 16 lives on Wednesday. The Quebec government confirmed that André Bergeron and Blandine Daux, who were a couple, were among those killed in the incident.

Both Bergeron and Daux were part of a specialized team within Quebec's Culture Department, focusing on the restoration of historical artifacts. Bergeron had retired from the Centre de conservation du Québec in 2022 after a distinguished career. Premier François Legault expressed his condolences, stating, "Quebec has lost two passionate people who dedicated their lives to preserving our archeological heritage. My thoughts are with their loved ones."

In response to the tragedy, Portugal observed a national day of mourning on Thursday, marking the worst disaster in the capital's recent history. The streetcar, known as the Elevador da Gloria, is a popular tourist attraction that transports passengers up and down steep hills, offering scenic views of the city. On Wednesday evening, the streetcar derailed while carrying a mix of locals and tourists, resulting in 16 fatalities and 21 injuries.

Canadian Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand announced that Global Affairs Canada is providing consular services to the families of the Canadian victims. "Canada extends our deepest condolences to their families and loved ones as well as to all of those affected by this tragedy," Anand stated.

The Culture Department of Quebec highlighted the significant contributions of Bergeron and Daux to the province's conservation efforts. They noted that Bergeron was a pioneer in the field, dedicating over 40 years to restoration work, while Daux joined the team in 2001.

Hélène Côté, an archeologist who knew the couple, expressed her shock at their deaths. "Bergeron specialized in artifact conservation, and he was someone who was truly renowned in his field," Côté said. She described them as generous individuals, both personally and professionally, who were always willing to share their expertise.

The victims included five from Portugal, three from the United Kingdom, two from Canada, two from South Korea, one from the United States, one from France, one from Switzerland, and one from Ukraine. The French Foreign Ministry confirmed that Daux held dual citizenship as a French-Canadian.

The Portuguese government’s office for air and rail accident investigations has completed its analysis of the wreckage. A preliminary technical report, initially scheduled for release on Friday, has been postponed to Saturday due to delays in official procedures. The extent of the report's findings remains uncertain.

The Elevador da Gloria, a funicular system, operates using steel cables, with the descending car assisting in pulling the ascending one. It has a capacity of over 40 passengers and has been in operation since its inauguration in 1885. The streetcar involved in the crash had been in service since 1914.