A tragic bus accident in São Paulo state, Brazil, has resulted in the death of at least eight individuals and left 45 others injured. The incident occurred early Monday on the Transbrasiliana Highway when the bus carrying rural workers overturned after the driver lost control due to a burst tire between Ocauçu and Marília, as confirmed by the São Paulo Fire Department and the Federal Highway Police (PRF).
Among the 45 injured passengers, 26 received treatment from ambulance services, 12 from local police, six from firefighters, and one from a motorway operator’s ambulance, according to reports from Brazilian outlet G1. The severity of the injuries sustained by the victims has not been disclosed, prompting the Marília Blood Centre to issue a plea for blood donations to aid those affected by the tragedy.
PRF Inspector Bruno Bernardo revealed that the bus was operating a charter service outside its authorized area, lacking approval from the National Land Transport Agency to travel beyond Maranhão state, rendering the journey illegal.
Efforts are underway by the police, in collaboration with the Ministry of Public Security, to identify the victims and other individuals involved in the accident. The absence of a passenger list has complicated the identification process, with the bus company now under scrutiny as part of the investigation.
A forensic team has been dispatched to the accident site, with authorities at the Marília Regional Police Station registering the case as they strive to determine the root cause of the tragic event.
