Tragic end to a wedding party in Australia’s Hunter Valley: On the way back from the party, a bus with about 40 guests on board crashed. At least ten prisoners were killed and another 25 were injured, some seriously.
The devastating accident happened late Sunday evening (local time) near the town of Greta in New South Wales, according to police. While exiting a roundabout, the bus suddenly fell sideways onto a guardrail. The bus driver, who suffered only minor injuries, was arrested and questioned by authorities.
Happy day ends in disaster
Just a few hours earlier, the newlyweds had celebrated with their guests at the Wandin Estate winery. On social networks, guests posted several photos of the happy couple at their party. The Hunter Valley north of Sydney is one of Australia’s most famous wine regions and is very popular as a party and wedding venue.
“It is cruel, sad and so unfair that such a joyful day in a beautiful place should end with such a terrible loss of life and injuries,” Prime Minister Anthony Albanese told reporters after the accident. “People rent a bus for weddings precisely to ensure the safety of their guests – which makes this tragedy even more unimaginable.” All of Australia is praying for those affected.
Driver probably not drunk
Shocked residents laid flowers at the scene of the accident in the morning. The bus was on its way from the winery to the town of Singleton. It is not yet clear why he went off the road and fell. Detectives and forensic scientists have examined the scene of the accident in detail. Tests have shown the 58-year-old driver was not intoxicated, media spokeswoman Tracy Chapman was quoted as saying. “But we have enough information to say there will be charges.” She declined to give further details.
The number of victims can rise
The bus had a total of 57 seats that were fitted with seat belts. According to Chapman, it is not yet clear whether the victims were wearing seat belts. Many of the injured initially did not respond and could not be questioned. Even hours after the accident, there were fears that there could be other dead under the bus. The emergency services were waiting for a crane to remove the heavy vehicle from its side position.
Meanwhile, according to authorities, some passengers were released from hospital in the morning with minor injuries. But it will take the community months to come to terms with the tragedy, Singleton Mayor Sue Moore said.
“This was a very frightening event in the history of New South Wales,” said Prime Minister Chris Minn. “Today is a good day to hug someone you love and remember how precious life is.”
The bus company speaks of a “terrible tragedy” and expresses its condolences to all those affected. The company is working closely with the police in the investigation.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
