Tragic Bus and Truck Collision in Sao Paulo, Brazil Claims 12 Lives
Fatal Accident Occurs Late Thursday Night
Twelve university students died and 21 were injured in a collision between a bus and a truck in Brazil’s southeastern state of Sao Paulo, officials announced on Friday.
State Governor Condemns Tragedy
"We wake up to the sad news of this tragedy that killed 12 students in a terrible accident involving a bus and a truck," State Governor Tarcisio Freitas wrote on X. "They saw their dreams cut short."
Injuries and Hospitalizations
Sao Paulo civil defense authorities reported that 21 injured people were taken to hospital after the crash, but most were released. One of the injured suffered from "cranial trauma" and three others were hospitalized and are in a stable condition.
Background of the Accident
The students were returning home from the private University of Franca (UNIFRAN) in the interior of the state when the accident occurred.
Truck Driver Under Arrest
A statement from the state government said the truck driver, who is hospitalized, had been placed under arrest for "fleeing the scene, negligent homicide and negligent bodily harm."
Official Mourning Period Declared
Freitas has declared a three-day official mourning period, added the statement. The university has also suspended classes on Friday and decreed a three-day mourning period.
Statement from the University
"It is with great sadness and regret that we received the news that our students had their dreams cut short in a tragic accident," said the university. "We are deeply saddened by this loss and extend our condolences to the families of the victims."
Recent Road Accidents in Brazil
In December 2024, 41 people died in a bus crash in the southeastern state of Minas Gerais, the worst accident on Brazil’s federal highways since 2007.
Conclusion
The tragic accident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of road safety and the need for stricter regulations and enforcement on Brazil’s roads.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How many students were killed in the accident? 12
- How many people were injured in the accident? 21
- What were the students returning from? The private University of Franca (UNIFRAN) in the interior of Sao Paulo
- What was the cause of the accident? A collision between a bus and a truck
- What is the condition of the truck driver? Hospitalized and under arrest for "fleeing the scene, negligent homicide and negligent bodily harm"