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A fatal crash in southern Ecuador on Friday resulted in the deaths of 16 people and injuries to eight others, rescue officials reported. The collision, involving a passenger bus and a smaller vehicle, unfolded along a busy route often plagued by traffic mishaps.
Witnesses described chaotic scenes as emergency crews worked tirelessly to save lives and recover the deceased, underscoring ongoing concerns about vehicle safety standards and driver accountability in the area.
“The death toll has risen to 16, with eight others injured,” confirmed the ECU911 agency in a message shared via WhatsApp. The tragic crash, which occurred in Ecuador’s Loja province near the Peruvian border, involved a passenger bus and a smaller vehicle. The province, known for its rugged terrain, has seen a history of traffic accidents, prompting renewed scrutiny of road safety measures.
“Firefighters, the National Police and the Ministry of Public Health units are working on the incident, which involved an interprovincial transport bus and a light car-type vehicle,” the agency said.
Local media reported that the bus collided head-on with a car traveling in the opposite direction, causing it to overturn. Following the tragic incident, Loja’s governor, Alexandra Jara, extended her heartfelt condolences, stating her “deep solidarity with the families affected by this unfortunate event.”
According to her statement, Isidro Ayora Hospital, the principal healthcare facility in Loja, was promptly activated to handle the influx of victims. Additionally, a local health center near the accident site was engaged to ensure swift medical response.
The road was immediately closed by police to secure the area and allow rescue operations to proceed without hindrance, ensuring victims received timely assistance.
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“All state institutions remain on alert to provide the necessary support,” the governor said on social media platform X.
The Isidro Ayora hospital announced on X that it initially received nine patients, one of whom had died and one of whom was in critical condition.
“Patients requiring surgery are transferred to the operating room,” the hospital said.
Traffic accidents are among the main causes of death in Ecuador. The country saw almost 21,000 accidents in 2023, with nearly 2,400 people killed, according to official figures.
In the first five months of 2024, there were 848 deaths from the more than 8,400 accidents recorded during the period. In September, the overturning of a bus carrying 35 Indigenous people of Waorani ethnic group on the outskirts of Quito left nine dead.
