At Least 18 Dead, 9 Injured After Bus Skids Off Bridge and Plunges Into River

At Least 18 Dead, 9 Injured After Bus Plunges Into River in Algeria

Tragedy struck in Algeria as at least 18 people lost their lives and nine others sustained injuries after a bus skidded off a bridge and plunged into the Oued El Harrach river in Algiers, the capital of Algeria. The fatal crash, which occurred on Friday, Aug. 15, has led to a day-long national mourning, as announced by Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune. The Algerian Press Service and local outlet AL24 reported that the bus fell off the bridge into the river, triggering a swift emergency response from rescue teams.

Lieutenant Nasim Bernawi, the deputy director of statistics and information at the country’s Civil Protection Directorate, confirmed the devastating death toll in the aftermath of the accident. He disclosed that two injured passengers were in critical condition but have since been stabilized, while the deceased victims were taken to the hospital’s mortuary for further procedures. The crash was initially reported around 5:46 p.m. local time, with search operations conducted throughout the night to locate any potential additional victims.

Details regarding the cause of the tragic crash were not immediately available, leaving authorities and the public seeking answers to this heart-wrenching incident. In response to the calamity, President Tebboune expressed his deepest condolences and wished a swift recovery for the injured individuals. His message, translated into English, highlighted the solemnity of the situation and extended sympathies to the families of the deceased, invoking prayers for solace and peace during this trying time.

The tragic event prompted an outpouring of support from emergency responders, with approximately 25 ambulances, 16 divers, and four boats mobilized to assist in the search and rescue efforts. The U.S. Sun reported that first responders and residents bravely plunged into the water to aid victims before official help arrived. General Saïd Chanegriha of the Algerian People’s National Army visited survivors in various hospitals, underscoring the collective effort to provide care and support to those affected by the accident.

Images captured from the scene portrayed a somber yet coordinated response, with red boats and rescue personnel tirelessly working to retrieve the bus from the river. The visible damage to the vehicle, including dents, broken doors, and missing parts, served as a stark reminder of the severity of the incident. Despite the challenges faced, the immediate and collaborative action taken by rescue teams and volunteers reflected a unified resolve to alleviate the impact of the tragedy and offer assistance to those in need.

As investigations into the cause of the bus crash continue and the affected community grapples with the aftermath, the resilience and compassion displayed by all involved reaffirm the importance of solidarity during times of adversity. The loss of lives in this harrowing accident serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the critical need for unwavering support and solidarity in the face of unforeseen calamities. The nation mourns the lives lost in this tragic event and stands together in solidarity with the grieving families and injured survivors, as they navigate through this challenging period.