Official announcements from the Brazilian government or Ministry of Transport

At Least 38 Dead in December 21 Bus Crash Involving 45 Passengers on BR-116 in Teófilo Otoni, Minas Gerais

Dec 21, 2024, 04:51 PM

A tragic accident on the BR-116 highway in Teófilo Otoni, Minas Gerais, has resulted in at least 38 fatalities. The incident occurred early on December 21, 2024, when a packed bus carrying approximately 45 passengers collided with a truck after the bus's tire reportedly blew out. The collision caused the bus to catch fire, leading to many victims being trapped inside. Emergency services, including the fire department, responded to the scene, managing to rescue 13 survivors. The local government has mobilized resources to assist the victims' families and is conducting investigations into the causes of the accident. Authorities suspect that a granite block may have fallen from the truck, contributing to the crash. This incident marks one of the deadliest road accidents in Brazil in recent years, prompting condolences and support from various government officials, including President Lula and Governor Romeu Zema.