Train slams into double decker bus, killing at least 10, dozens injured in Mexico

A train slammed into a double decker bus in Atlacomulco, Mexico early Monday. The collision has led to at least 10 dead and over 50 injured, according to media reports. The crash took place at a railway crossing in an industrial zone northwest of Mexico city.

Early in the morning, a bus filled with commuters was crossing the tracks amid Monday traffic when a freight train crashed into its passenger side, detaching the roof of the bus. Witness reports state that there were no crossing gates or warning signals for the traffic to know about the train.

The cause of the collision is yet to be known and is under investigation. Authorities have closed down the highway to fasten the emergency response and the bus driver has been taken into custody.

Rebeca Miranda told The Associated Press that her sister and her sister’s daughter-in-law were passengers on the bus when the collision occurred. She said her sister was taken to the hospital and was able to communicate, while the daughter-in-law tragically lost her life in the accident. Both women were employed as domestic workers.

Canadian Pacific Kansas City of Mexico, the train operator, released a statement expressing condolences and pledged ongoing cooperation with authorities. CPKC manages a rail network spanning Canada, the United States, and Mexico. It also stated that its personnel were present at the site and actively cooperating with local authorities in the ongoing investigation, CBC reported.

The bus company has not commented, though officials are working to provide updates and support to affected families.

FAQs

Q: How many casualties and injuries resulted from the collision?
At least 10 people were killed and 41 to 45 injured; some survivors remain hospitalized in critical condition.

Q: What caused the accident?
Official investigations are ongoing, but reports indicate the bus was crossing tracks in heavy traffic without barriers or signals, and the train was unable to stop in time.

Q: How frequent are train crossing accidents in Mexico?
Such accidents are on the rise, with 800 grade-level crossing incidents recorded last year, compared to 602 in 2020 according to government agencies.