Five people died and nearly three dozen have been injured after a bus in Virginia struck six vehicles.
The crash happened on Friday morning on Interstate 95. Traffic was slowing for a work zone when the collision occurred. Police stated that at least 34 people were taken to the hospital. Three of those injured were in critical condition.
The five people who died were inside the vehicles hit by the bus. Police are continuing their investigation into the multi-vehicle crash. Early findings suggest the bus did not slow down for the traffic ahead. It is not yet known why the bus was hired or who was on board the vehicle. Charges are expected to be filed in the case.
The fatal incident took place around 2:35 AM local time. It happened in Stafford County at the 146-mile marker. The southbound lanes of the highway were shut down for seven hours. Traffic was redirected while emergency crews cleared the scene. The road has since reopened.
Images show the damaged bus in a grassy area beside the highway. Nineteen people were taken to Mary Washington Hospital in Fredericksburg. Five have since been released. Two remain in critical condition at that facility. Twelve patients went to Stafford Hospital. They have all been discharged.
This incident has echoes of broader concerns about road safety and transportation infrastructure in Ghana. While this event occurred in the US, analyses by the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) often highlight that bus and 'trotro' fares are key drivers of Consumer Price Inflation. The cost and safety of public transport are vital economic and social issues. Past events in Ghana, such as the overturning of a 50-seater bus in Nkonya Bumbula that killed two, and the report of the NPP selling over 300 Metro Mass buses amongst cronies in 2020, also point to the importance of proper vehicle management and safety protocols in public transportation.
Virginia State Police spokesman Matthew Demlein provided details on the crash. He confirmed the road has reopened. Other reports indicate two additional crashes occurred near the original accident site. Authorities are looking into these further events.