At least 16 individuals lost their lives, and about 20 others sustained injuries following a tragic incident where a school bus careened off a 250ft embankment.
The group of teenagers had been on a return journey from a school graduation celebration. Prior to boarding the bus back to Bello near Medellin in Colombia, they took a poignant group photo.
The fatal accident took place early in the morning as the students were heading home from a trip that commenced on Wednesday. The scene near Remedios in Antioquia department showcased the grim aftermath, with casualties lying in the undergrowth and survivors seeking refuge on rocks.
Antioquia Governor Andres Julian Rendon expressed deep sorrow over the accident involving students from Liceo Antioqueno school in Bello. The tragic incident resulted in over a dozen fatalities and numerous injuries, prompting the activation of the entire hospital network to manage the emergency.
The victims, mostly aged between 16 and 18, had been joyfully celebrating their graduation before the unfortunate turn of events. Among the deceased was identified as the bus driver, Johnatan Taborda Cocacolo, while investigations into the accident’s cause were ongoing.
The party and entertainment operator, Senior Prom Fest, responsible for transporting the victims, issued a statement extending condolences to the affected families. They emphasized their commitment to cooperating with authorities and providing necessary support to those impacted.
Local authorities and community members, including Colombian councillor John Concejal, shared messages of solidarity and support for the victims and their families. The school attended by the students expressed deep regret over the tragic incident and offered support to the grieving families and community.