A devastating bus crash near the Italian city of Venice has claimed the lives of at least 21 people and left 18 others injured, including Ukrainians. The accident occurred on a busy street in the Mestre borough, opposite the historic old city of Venice, as a bus carrying foreign tourists was heading to a camping site. Authorities have described the scene as “apocalyptic” due to the severe impact of the crash.
According to officials, four of the injured are in serious condition, and two of the dead are children. The bus fell a few metres before crashing close to the Mestre railway tracks, where it caught fire, prompting a massive response from emergency crews. The scene was filled with chaos and debris as authorities scrambled to rescue survivors and identify the victims.
Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni expressed her “deepest sorrow” for the “numerous victims” on the bus, while Venice Mayor Luigi Brugnaro declared the “city’s mourning” for the victims, describing the scene as “apocalyptic”. The cause of the crash is currently unclear, but an investigation is underway to determine the circumstances surrounding the tragic event.
As authorities continue to work to identify the victims and determine the cause of the crash, the city of Venice is left to mourn the loss of so many innocent lives. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of prioritizing safety and security, particularly in popular tourist destinations like Venice. The city’s rich history and culture attract millions of visitors each year, and this tragic event will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on the community. The city will likely come together to support those affected by the tragedy and to rebuild and move forward from this devastating incident.