A devastating traffic accident in the province of Camagüey has resulted in the preliminary report of two fatalities, one being a seven-year-old child and the other an elderly adult. Over 30 individuals have sustained injuries, with several in critical condition.
The accident occurred on the night of Wednesday, January 7, on a notoriously dangerous section of the Central Highway.
Incident Details: Bus Overturns at Ignacio Curve
The tragic event unfolded shortly after 7:00 p.m. (local time) at kilometer 595 of the Central Highway in an area known as the Ignacio Curve, located in the municipality of Jimaguayú, Camagüey.
According to reports from Televisión Camagüey and Cadena Agramonte, the accident involved a Yutong bus belonging to the Mariel construction company. The bus was transporting workers from the Mariel Development Zone, traveling from Banes in Holguín province to Artemisa. The official reports suggest that, for reasons yet to be disclosed, the vehicle veered off course and overturned in the underbrush, leading to the fatal outcome.
Casualties: Child Among the Deceased and Dozens Injured
There were 45 passengers on board the bus. Tragically, the accident claimed the lives of a seven-year-old child and an elderly adult, whose identities have not been made public.
Medical authorities reported that at least 31 individuals were injured, with several sustaining severe injuries.
Medical Response and Current Condition of the Injured
The initial injured were treated at the Sibanicú Polyclinic, where emergency protocols were activated and medical transport was mobilized. Many were later transferred to hospitals in the city of Camagüey for specialized care.
Dr. Rodolfo Domínguez Rosabal, director of the Provincial Hospital, provided details on the situation:
"One patient is in critical condition, and three are in serious condition; among the injured, three required orthopedic surgeries."
One of the most severe cases involved a patient who needed an upper limb amputation due to the extent of their injuries. Others are suffering from open fractures and multiple injuries, which are being surgically treated.
"Amputation was necessary; the rest involve open fractures being surgically corrected," confirmed Domínguez.
Minimal care units have been set up for observation, aiming to monitor patient progress over the next 24 hours and determine the necessary medical actions.
Twelve of the injured were initially treated in Sibanicú but were later moved to healthcare facilities in Camagüey city.
Patient Distribution Across Hospitals
The Military Hospital is attending to three patients reported as serious. The Amalia Simoni Provincial Hospital received two injured individuals. Two minors are under medical observation at the Pediatric Hospital, though they are currently out of danger.
Current Status of the Injured
Dr. Rodolfo, the Provincial Hospital director, stated that a total of 31 people were injured. Among them:
- One is in critical condition.
- Three have severe injuries and have undergone surgery.
- The remaining are under medical supervision and will be reevaluated on Thursday.
The province's medical staff has been mobilized to ensure timely and quality care for all affected individuals.
Following the accident, an emergency response was activated, involving the Ministry of the Interior (MININT), firefighters, provincial authorities, and healthcare personnel.
The local government has provided lodging and meals for the families of the injured and ensured the availability of all necessary medical and logistical resources for victim care.
On the scene and in medical facilities, the First Secretary of the Communist Party of Cuba (PCC) in Camagüey, Walter Simón Noris, and Governor Jorge Enrique Sutil were present, overseeing rescue and assistance efforts.
FAQs about the Camagüey Bus Accident
What caused the bus accident in Camagüey?
The exact cause of the accident is still under investigation. However, it has been reported that the bus veered off the road and overturned, leading to the tragic event.
How many people were injured in the accident?
At least 31 individuals were injured, with several in critical condition. The injured received medical attention at various hospitals in Camagüey.
What measures are being taken to help the victims?
The local government has ensured the availability of medical resources and has provided accommodations and meals for the families of the injured. Medical staff has been mobilized to provide necessary care.