least 15 people have tragically lost their lives following a crash between a bus carrying elderly passengers and a truck in Manitoba, Canada. The incident happened near Carberry, west of Winnipeg, on the Trans-Canada Highway. According to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), 10 people, including both drivers, were transported to the hospital with significant injuries.
Eyewitness John Proven described the scene as a “huge accident” with a vehicle in flames and a semi-truck nearby, its front end severely damaged. The bus was carrying seniors from Dauphin to the Sand Hills Casino in Carberry when the tragic accident took place. Emergency services, including an air ambulance and 12 other ambulances, were quickly dispatched.
Authorities are still determining why the bus entered the truck’s lane, though footage showed the truck had the right of way. RCMP Superintendent Rob Lasson emphasized that no blame has been assigned at this time, as the investigation is still ongoing.
This accident has drawn comparisons to the 2018 Humboldt Broncos bus tragedy in Saskatchewan, in which 16 people died. Manitoba officials have sought assistance from those involved in the Humboldt investigation, given the similarities in both incidents.
William Doherty, CEO of the trucking company involved, expressed deep sorrow and offered full cooperation with the investigation. He told CTV News that “the thoughts of the entire Day & Ross team are with those who have lost loved ones in this terrible incident”.
“We are holding out hope that those injured will recover.” Mr Doherty added, “We will fully cooperate with the investigation and offer any assistance and support that we can.”
Prime Minister Trudeau was among those who offered their condolences. “The news from Carberry, Manitoba is incredibly tragic. I’m sending my deepest condolences to those who lost loved ones today, and I’m keeping the injured in my thoughts. I cannot imagine the pain those affected are feeling – but Canadians are here for you.”
The accident has devastated the close-knit community of Dauphin, where many of the victims lived. Mayor David Bosiak said, “Literally everyone in town knew someone that was on that bus.”
“There’s a collective feeling of shock … it’s just a tremendous tragedy for our little community.
“It’s a kick in the teeth, a punch in the gut.”
We are so very sorry for this tragic incident and the lives lost.