In the early hours of Monday, a tragic bus accident unfolded in Guatemala City, leaving at least 51 people dead. A bus, heavily packed with passengers, lost control and veered off the highway, plunging into a polluted ravine, creating a scene of devastation and despair.
The accident occurred as the bus was en route from the town of San Agustin Acasaguastlan into the capital. This popular route turned deadly as the vehicle fell approximately 20 meters from the Puente Belice, a highway bridge that spans over a roadway and creek. The fall resulted in fatalities and trapped many other passengers, creating a desperate situation for survivors and rescuers alike.
Emergency responders, including the city’s fire department, swiftly arrived on the scene. According to a spokesperson, the bodies of 36 men and 15 women have been transported to a provincial morgue established to handle the aftermath of this horrific accident.
Images circulated by the fire department on social media painted a grim picture of the accident, showing the bus partially submerged in wastewater, surrounded by victims who tragically lost their lives.
In response to this tragic event, Guatemalan President Bernardo Arevalo has declared a three-day mourning period. In a show of solidarity and support, the nation’s army and disaster response teams have been deployed to assist with rescue and recovery efforts. In a poignant statement, President Arevalo expressed his deep sympathy: “My heart goes out to the families who woke up to the heart-wrenching news of their loved ones taken by this tragedy.”
Such accidents serve as stark reminders of the importance of road safety and the unpredictable nature of life. The nation mourns, standing together in this time of sorrow as efforts continue to support those affected by this heartbreaking incident.
The community, both locally and nationally, is coming together to offer support and condolences to the bereaved families. This tragic accident has indeed cast a shadow over the nation, emphasizing the need for continued vigilance and safety on the roads.
In Guatemala City, prayers and tribute events are being organized, uniting the community in collective mourning while honoring the lives lost. These events aim to provide comfort and solidarity for those grieving, as the whole country grapples with the magnitude of the tragedy.
