Northeast —
At 6:30 AM on December 27th, 2024, Chum Phae police responded to a serious bus accident on the Chum Phae-Phu Kradueng road in Loei.
A double-decker public bus, carrying 40 passengers, traveling the Bangkok-Loei-Chiang Khan route veered off the road, crashing into trees for approximately 100 meters.
The vehicle’s front was heavily damaged, with shattered windows and the driver’s door torn off. The driver, publicly identified only as Mr. Wanchai, 52, was found dead at the scene.
Rescue workers reported that 35 passengers sustained injuries, primarily minor, and were taken to Chum Phae Hospital for treatment. Initial reports from passengers and crew indicated that the driver had displayed signs of drowsiness during the journey but had not stopped to rest or switch drivers.
Witnesses also noted that the crash occurred as the driver appeared to fall asleep, causing the vehicle to swerve off the road and collide with multiple large trees.
Police continue investigating the accident, emphasizing the need for bus companies to ensure driver safety and fatigue management.
Roi Et Bus Fire Averted, All Passengers Safe
Later that same day, another incident occurred in Roi Et, where a public bus caught fire on Route 502 in Suwannaphum District. The vehicle, traveling from Bangkok to Roi Et, had stopped to let passengers off when a motorcyclist noticed flames near the lower luggage compartment and alerted the driver.
The driver quickly evacuated all passengers, ensuring their safety. Local residents helped extinguish the fire using water and fire extinguishers.
No injuries or damage to passengers’ belongings were reported. Authorities are investigating the cause of the fire, with initial suspicions pointing to an electrical issue.
This article originally appeared on our sister website The Pattaya News.
