BRASILIA: A devastating collision between a passenger bus and a truck in southeastern Brazil has resulted in the deaths of at least 38 people, with many others injured. The incident, described as a “horrific tragedy” by Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, occurred on Saturday in a rural region of the country.
Fatal Collision Causes Fire
The passenger bus, en route from São Paulo to Vitória da Conquista in the northeastern state of Bahia, collided with a truck, causing the bus to catch fire. The blaze led to the deaths of numerous passengers, including the bus driver and a child.
Emergency responders confirmed that 38 people died, while 8 others remain hospitalized with varying degrees of injuries.
Conflicting Reports on Cause of the Bus Accident
Initial investigations have revealed conflicting accounts regarding the cause of the accident. Firefighters initially reported that the bus lost control after a tire burst at around 3:30 AM, leading to a collision with a truck. However, eyewitnesses later claimed that a granite block fell from the truck and struck the bus, precipitating the crash.
A third vehicle reportedly collided with the bus, but its passengers were unharmed, according to local officials.
Deadliest Traffic Accident Since 2007
This tragic event has been labeled the deadliest traffic accident in Brazil since 2007. Local media highlighted the scope of devastation and the challenges faced by emergency crews as they worked to rescue survivors and recover bodies.
Grief and Investigation
President Lula expressed condolences to the victims’ families, describing the accident as a heartbreaking loss. Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident to determine whether negligence or vehicle maintenance issues played a role.
This catastrophe serves as a grim reminder of the dangers associated with road travel in Brazil, where infrastructure challenges and high-speed highways often contribute to fatal accidents. It has reignited calls for stricter road safety regulations to prevent similar tragedies.
Local communities are mourning the lives lost in what will be remembered as one of the most tragic traffic accidents in Brazil’s history.
