Tragic electric bus accident in Sakon Nakhon kills one, injures 25
A tragic accident unfolded in Sakon Nakhon when an electric shuttle bus lost control and descended a steep slope, resulting in the death of one individual and injuries to 25 others. The mishap took place near Wat Phra Tha Pek in Phana Nikhom district.
The incident occurred around 3pm on November 15 as the shuttle bus navigated the 3-kilometre road down a hillside. As the vehicle negotiated a sharp curve, it swerved to evade oncoming traffic, leading to a loss of control, as recounted by a passenger seated at the rear of the bus.
In its uncontrolled descent, the bus collided with a rock, severely damaging one side. The impact propelled the bus another 20 metres before it stopped.
A 16 year old girl, who was visiting the temple with her family to perform a merit-making ceremony, tragically lost her life at the scene. Other passengers, including elderly individuals, were swiftly transported to a hospital for medical attention, reported Bangkok Post.
Law enforcement officials have detained the bus driver for questioning to determine the circumstances leading to the accident and are contemplating potential legal proceedings.
Officers from Mueang Nakhon Pathom Police Station investigated the accident at about 6.45pm, along with rescuers from the Suksalanukroh Nakhon Pathom Foundation. The windscreen of the bus was shattered and its front door was jammed while the 12-wheel truck sustained minimal damage.
Rescuers rushed 31 victims to hospital with minor injuries. Other students who escaped the crash unscathed carefully removed their belongings from the damaged bus to a replacement vehicle.
The bus driver, 70 year old Chaiyasit Pattamaethin, waited for officers at the scene. He told police that he was transporting around 40 university students from Srinakharinwirot University in Bangkok. They attended a nature conservation camp in the central province of Ratchaburi, and the accident occurred on their return journey.
