Bus accident kills at least 37 in southern Peru

Shutterstock [For illustration]

At least 37 people were killed and dozens injured after a bus plunged into a ravine in the mountainous Arequipa region of southern Peru on Wednesday.

The fatalities included 36 people who died on site, and another person who succumbed in hospital, said Walther Oporto, Arequipa's regional health chief, citing firefighters at the scene of the accident.

The death toll was among the highest in a series of bus accidents in recent years in Latin America, and one of the worst recorded in Peru.

Among the injured were an eight-month-old baby and two other children, according to a list shared by local authorities.

The bus company, Llamosas, did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Authorities said the bus was travelling on the highway from the coastal town of Chala to the region of Arequipa when it struck a van.

The impact sent it careening into a ravine around 200 metres (656 feet) deep.

The Arequipa government said 26 people were being treated for injuries, three of them in serious condition.

More from International

Coming Up on Dubai Eye

  • The Agenda

    10:00am - 1:00pm

    Broadcasting every weekday, Georgia Tolley goes beyond the headlines to speak to government ministers, decision makers, analysts and local experts to find out how the news will impact those of us living in the UAE.

  • Afternoons with Helen Farmer

    1:00pm - 4:00pm

    Every weekday afternoon, Helen Farmer will help you to navigate the highs and lows of life in the UAE. Stay up to date with what’s happening and where to go.

BUSINESS BREAKFAST LATEST

On Dubai Eye

  • Is There Sufficient House Supply In UAE

    Dubai’s current population is more than double compared to almost twenty years ago, which now stands at 3.7 million. Lots of families are also moving to the UAE now. So what does it mean for the property market?

  • Noon's First Female Delivery Driver

    Glory Ehirim Nkiruka is Noon’s first ever female delivery driver. In her first ever interview, she explained why she loves her job, despite the heat!