Two Montreal deaf community members, Guylaine Boulanger and Elise Bénard, lost their lives after being struck by a train while visiting Portugal. CTV
Montreal’s deaf community is grieving after two women lost their lives in Portugal. The victims, identified as 62-year-old Guylaine Boulanger and 66-year-old Elise Bénard, were struck by a train while sightseeing near Baqueiros station in Mesao Frio, about 80 kilometres east of Porto.
Accident While Sightseeing
The two women had been taking photos by a river on Saturday when tragedy struck. According to reports, the train conductor noticed them on the tracks and sounded the horn before applying the brakes. Despite efforts, the train could not stop in time.
Two other people were present during the incident but were not harmed. Witnesses say the group had been enjoying the scenery and taking pictures when the accident occurred.
Friends Remember the Victims
Both women were well-known in Montreal’s deaf community and shared a passion for travel. Their deaths have left many in shock.
“I was crying yesterday,” said Tobi-Lynne Payne, a close friend of Bénard. “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.”
Canadian Officials Respond
Canadian officials confirmed the deaths of the two women. In a statement, Global Affairs Canada said consular staff are supporting the families.
“Consular officials are in contact with local authorities and are in contact with the families involved to provide consular assistance,” the statement read. Officials added that privacy rules prevent them from sharing more details.
Another Tragedy in Portugal
This is the second fatal incident involving Quebec travellers in Portugal this month. Earlier, André Bergeron and his wife, Blandine Daux, died in Lisbon during a funicular derailment.
Bergeron and Daux had been celebrating his 70th birthday when the accident occurred. Sixteen people died in that crash, including the Quebec couple.
A Painful Month for Quebec Families
For many families in Quebec, the news of another tragedy in Portugal has deepened the sorrow. The deaths of Boulanger and Bénard, alongside the earlier Lisbon accident, have reminded Canadians of how quickly joyful vacations can turn into heartbreak.
Friends and relatives of the victims continue to share memories and mourn together, while communities in Montreal honour the lives of those lost.
