The tragic bus accident that occurred early Sunday in Granma province has claimed a third life. On Monday, it was confirmed that Alien Pérez Quesada, the driver of the vehicle, had succumbed to his injuries. This information was shared on social media by Yudelkis Ortiz, the first secretary of the Communist Party of Cuba in Granma.
"This morning we learned of the death of Alien Pérez Quesada, a patient who was in critical unstable condition due to the accident that took place in Granma province early Sunday," Ortiz posted on Facebook. "As a result of this unfortunate event, the number of reported fatalities now stands at three," she added. Pérez was the driver behind the wheel at the time of the crash.
His death follows the earlier reports of the passing of two other individuals involved in the incident, identified as Aracelis Torres Almarales, aged 60, and Ismael Gómez de la Masa Areces, aged 51.
Details of the Tragic Incident
The accident unfolded in the pre-dawn hours of Sunday, initially leaving two dead and at least 27 injured along kilometer 727 of the Bayamo-Las Tunas highway in Granma. The bus was leased by the National Center for Scientific Research (CNIC) of BioCubaFarma, traveling from Havana to Santiago de Cuba.
Preliminary reports from the government-run CNC TV Granma indicated that the driver lost control of the vehicle, resulting in a collision with a fixed object and causing substantial damage to the front of the bus. One victim perished at the scene, while another died later at the Carlos Manuel de Céspedes Provincial Hospital in Bayamo, where all the injured were taken.
Ongoing Care and Investigations
Among the injured is at least one minor, as confirmed by official sources. Prior to the driver's death, Ortiz reported that ten individuals remained hospitalized at the Provincial Carlos Manuel de Céspedes Hospital. Of these, four were in serious condition and six were under medical observation, including a 10-year-old girl. "All are receiving meticulous care from our health personnel," she stated, noting that 16 patients had been discharged, most of whom were transferred to Santiago de Cuba.
Survivor Yorisel Andino, director of the Dolores Concert Hall, described the panic experienced by the passengers. On social media, she recounted her sole focus on saving her daughter amidst the chaos and darkness. "It was inevitable that this would happen," she wrote, also criticizing reckless driving before the crash.
Authorities are investigating the cause of the accident and have reiterated the importance of enhancing road safety measures.
Questions and Answers About the Granma Bus Accident
What caused the bus accident in Granma province?
Preliminary reports suggest that the driver lost control of the bus, leading to a collision with a fixed object.
How many people were injured in the accident?
At least 27 people were injured in the accident, with ten remaining hospitalized, including a minor.
What measures are being taken following the accident?
Authorities are investigating the accident's cause and have emphasized the need for improved road safety measures.