At least 15 people were killed and 19 others injured after a passenger bus plunged into a ravine on the Inter-American Highway in western Guatemala, authorities confirmed. The fatal crash occurred on Saturday in the Sololá Department, a region notorious for dense fog that reduces visibility for drivers.
Local firefighters reported that the victims included 11 men, three women, and one minor. The injured were immediately transported to nearby hospitals for emergency treatment, with rescue teams working under challenging conditions to secure the accident scene.
The crash took place between kilometres 172 and 174, a stretch of highway frequently affected by poor visibility due to heavy fog. Authorities have urged drivers to exercise extreme caution when navigating the area, especially during early morning and late evening hours when fog is densest.
Firefighters shared images of the wrecked bus in the ravine, showing the challenging rescue operations carried out to recover passengers and provide medical assistance. Emergency responders coordinated quickly to transport the injured and recover the deceased while ensuring the safety of rescue personnel.
Officials have initiated an investigation to determine the precise cause of the accident. Preliminary assessments suggest that the region’s reduced visibility may have contributed to the bus losing control, but further details will be released after a thorough inquiry.
This incident adds to a growing number of road accidents in Guatemala, highlighting the need for stricter safety measures on highways prone to hazardous weather conditions. Authorities continue to emphasize driver awareness, adherence to speed limits, and the importance of vehicle maintenance to prevent such tragedies.
The local community has expressed grief over the loss of lives and called for increased infrastructure support, including improved road lighting, fog warning systems, and guardrails in high-risk areas. Emergency services also stress the importance of rapid response capabilities to minimize casualties in future incidents.
Families of the victims are being assisted by local authorities, and counseling services have been offered to survivors and those affected by the tragedy. The government has confirmed that support will continue as part of a coordinated response to the accident.
