Fogo Island Bus Crash: Death Toll Rises to 22 in Cape Verde
The death toll from a devastating bus accident on Cape Verde’s Fogo Island has risen to 22 after more victims succumbed to their injuries, local officials confirmed on Monday. The tragedy, which occurred Saturday, has left the island nation in mourning as details emerge about the young victims involved.
A Tragic Excursion
The accident took place in the locality of Campanas de Cima, within the municipality of Santa Catarina do Fogo. According to the São Filipe Municipal Council, the bus was transporting students on a school excursion when the driver lost control. The vehicle veered off the road and plummeted approximately 30 meters (nearly 100 feet) down a steep embankment.
While initial reports cited 18 fatalities, the toll climbed to 22 by Monday. Officials report that 18 survivors remain hospitalized, with ages ranging from just six to 11 years old. Four of the injured are listed in serious condition.
National Grief and Support
In response to the tragedy, the São Filipe Municipal Council declared two days of official mourning. Local authorities held an extraordinary meeting on Monday to coordinate emergency support and financial assistance for the grieving families.
President José Maria Neves expressed his deep sorrow in a statement on social media, offering condolences to the families and wishing a “speedy recovery to the injured.” Prime Minister Francisco Carvalho also extended the government’s solidarity to the people of Fogo, praising the tireless efforts of health professionals, volunteer firefighters, and rescue teams who have been working around the clock since the crash.
Emergency Response Continues
A coordinated task force involving the National Police, the Health Delegation, and volunteer municipal firefighters remains on-site to assist with the investigation and provide ongoing aid. The cause of the crash is currently under investigation as the community begins to bury the victims of one of the deadliest road accidents in the country’s recent history.
Image: Pexels – Cheng
