GUATEMALA CITY, Guatemala (AP) – A tragic accident occurred on Friday night involving an intermunicipal bus that veered off the road and fell into a deep ravine, resulting in the deaths of 15 passengers and injuring at least 15 others. The incident took place just outside the town of Totonicapan along a route known as the Interamerican Road. In light of this calamity, local authorities have declared three days of national mourning.
Rescue workers faced significant challenges as they worked to recover the bodies from the crash site and assist the injured. Reports indicate that it took over two hours to complete the rescue efforts, reflecting the difficult conditions first responders encountered. Currently, 15 individuals are still receiving medical treatment at local hospitals due to injuries sustained in the crash.
In response to the incident, Guatemalan President Bernardo Arevalo expressed his deep sorrow in a social media statement. He stated, “I profoundly regret the tragedy which happened along the Interamerican Route.” The president assured the public that the government is coordinating necessary actions to assist those impacted by the accident and provide support to victims' families.
Road accidents are a prevalent issue in Guatemala, a country characterized by its mountainous terrain and limited enforcement of transportation regulations. Many towns and cities within the country are accessible only via narrow, two-lane roads, which can create hazardous driving conditions. The National Transportation Safety Observatory, a government agency, reported in October that there have been 446 public transportation vehicles involved in accidents throughout Guatemala in 2025. These incidents have resulted in 111 fatalities and more than 600 injuries up to October of this year.
This latest accident highlights the pressing safety concerns surrounding public transportation in Guatemala. The lack of stringent regulations and the challenging geography of the country contribute to a high incidence of road accidents. Authorities are faced with the ongoing challenge of ensuring the safety of passengers who rely on public transportation to navigate the country's roadways.
The tragedy has sparked discussions regarding the need for improved road safety measures. As families mourn their lost loved ones, there is a call for policy changes to prevent such devastating incidents in the future. The Guatemalan government, under President Arevalo's administration, will be scrutinized for its transportation safety policies in the aftermath of this heartbreaking event.
