A tragic accident unfolded in St Petersburg, Russia, as a bus carrying over 20 passengers crashed off a bridge into the river. The harrowing incident resulted in the loss of at least seven lives, with several others injured.
The bus, identified as number 262, was captured on video careening out of control as it crossed the bridge, eventually crashing through the barriers and descending into the water below. Witnesses described a chaotic scene as the bus struck an SUV before plunging into the Moika River.
Despite the swift and courageous efforts of rescuers, seven individuals lost their lives in the accident. Eight survivors were rescued through the hatch in the roof of the bus, while five others were rushed to the hospital for treatment. Additional passengers managed to escape into the river, where they were thankfully collected by rescue boats.
Authorities wasted no time in launching a search and rescue operation to locate any remaining individuals who may have been impacted by the crash. Reports indicated that the driver of the bus, who survived the ordeal, was promptly detained, and a criminal case has been opened in connection with the incident.
Eyewitnesses shared their accounts of the moment leading up to the crash, with some suggesting that the bus appeared to be malfunctioning before the tragic events unfolded. Investigations into the cause of the accident are ongoing, with a focus on determining whether mechanical issues played a role.
This devastating incident comes on the heels of another public transportation mishap in St Petersburg involving a tram equipped with an experimental AI system. Last month, the tram collided with pedestrians due to a brake failure, leaving several individuals injured, including one woman who suffered serious harm.
As the authorities continue their search efforts in the aftermath of the bus crash, the community has rallied together to support the victims and their families. The road to recovery will undoubtedly be long and challenging, but with the strength and solidarity of the people of St Petersburg, those affected by this tragedy will receive the care and assistance they need to heal.
