Bus Falls into Gorge Amid Heavy Fogs
A major road tragedy struck western Guatemala on Saturday, killing 15 passengers and injuring 19 others. The crash occurred on the Inter-American Highway in Sololá, between kilometres 172 and 174. The area often experiences dense fog, and as a result, visibility drops sharply for drivers. Soon after the accident, rescue teams arrived at the remote location and began climbing down the steep ravine where the bus had fallen.
Firefighters Race to Save Survivors
Local firefighters reached the crash site quickly; moreover, they faced extremely challenging terrain. “Fifteen people have died in this traffic accident — 11 men, three women and a minor,” spokesperson Leandro Amado said. He added that the bus appeared to lose control before plunging into the gorge. Although the slope was dangerous, first responders continued their efforts without pause. Consequently, they managed to bring several injured passengers out of the ravine faster than expected.
Nineteen People Sustain Serious Injuries
Hospitals in the region treated 19 injured passengers soon after they arrived. Many suffered fractures and trauma; however, doctors said most of them remain stable. Amado also noted that around 19 firefighters took part in the operation. They relied on ropes, stretchers, and climbing gear to reach the victims safely. Additionally, photographs shared by the fire department showed the bus crushed at the bottom of the gorge. These images further demonstrated the intensity of the rescue mission and the dangerous conditions firefighters faced.
Investigators Examine Safety Issues
Authorities have now opened an investigation into the cause of the accident. Early reports suggest that fog, sharp curves, and reduced visibility may have contributed to the tragedy. Moreover, the Sololá region has a history of similar incidents due to its narrow and winding mountain roads. Therefore, officials are likely to consider stronger safety measures, including better warning signs and speed controls. Families have begun identifying victims, and meanwhile, the government is preparing detailed reports on the crash.
This devastating incident has reignited concerns about road safety in Guatemala’s highland regions. As the investigation continues, authorities hope to introduce measures that will prevent similar tragedies on the country’s most dangerous routes.
