According to officials, 12 casualties and over ten injuries resulted from a bus crash in Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico. Eight Americans, two Swedish, one Canadian and a child were among the victims.
The accident happened on Tuesday when the bus tour was traveling from Mahahual to the Mayan archeological site Chacchoben, according to the public security office in Quintana Roo. Tourists from the United States, Brazil, Canada, Italy, and Sweden were in the bus accident that also ended the life a local tour guide.
“We express our heartfelt condolences to all those affected by this tragedy,” said the US State Department. “We are in contact with local authorities and will continue to monitor the situation. We have staff on the scene and at local hospitals to assist victims and loved ones.”
Injured passengers came from Canada, Brazil, and the United States, according to the Government of Quintana Roo. Two more injured from Sweden got relocated to the United States and the bus driver, who also got hurt, was arrested.
Most of the injured ended up in Bacalar and Chetumal, and five other wounded individuals were later released. The passengers were part of 2 Caribbean cruises: Celebrity Equinox and Serenade of the Seas. Equinox left Port Miami on Saturday, and Serenade left Fort Lauderdale on Friday.
Spokeswoman Cynthia Martinez said, “Our hearts go out to all those involved in the bus accident in Costa Maya. We are doing all we can to care for our guests, including assisting with medical care and transportation. We are working with the local authorities to learn more about the accident.”
This article was inspired by NYDAILYNEWS // Eight Americans, including Florida grandmother, confirmed dead in Mexico tour bus crash that killed 12