Following a devastating road accident on Wednesday along the Central Highway in Camagüey, the Manuel Ascunce Domenech Provincial Hospital has reported that one patient remains in critical condition with life-threatening injuries, while another is in severe condition.
The collision, which occurred around 8 p.m. at kilometer 595 in the Curva de Ignacio area of Jimaguayú municipality, resulted in the tragic deaths of a seven-year-old child and an elderly man. Over 30 individuals sustained injuries, with several critically or severely hurt.
Dr. Rodolfo Domínguez Rosabal, the hospital's director, shared that Josvanny López Vidal, a 51-year-old resident of Mariel in Artemisa province, is in critical condition due to a severe cranial trauma. He is currently on ventilation and his condition is life-threatening.
Leonardo Frómeta Batista, aged 28 and from Calixto García in Holguín province, is reported to be in a serious condition with moderate cranial trauma, as detailed by Dr. Domínguez to local media.
Four patients underwent major surgeries yesterday, according to the hospital. Meanwhile, those treated for orthopedic injuries remain under observation, with potential discharges planned for those deemed fit today.
Earlier on Thursday, Dr. Domínguez highlighted a particularly severe case involving a patient whose injuries necessitated the amputation of an upper limb. "Amputation was required; others have open fractures being surgically corrected," he explained.
Many others involved suffered open fractures and multiple injuries that required surgical intervention.
The accident involved a Yutong bus, part of the Mariel Construction fleet, en route from Banes, Holguín to Artemisa, carrying workers from the Mariel Development Zone and additional passengers. The bus was carrying 45 passengers at the time of the incident, according to official reports.
Local television noted the involvement of a truck, though specifics on the crash's dynamics were not disclosed. Preliminary reports suggested that the bus veered off the road before overturning in the roadside brush, leading to the fatal outcome. Authorities have yet to disclose the exact cause of the accident or identify the deceased victims.
Initially, the injured were treated at the Sibanicú municipality polyclinic, where emergency protocols were enacted and medical transport was mobilized. They were later transferred to hospitals in Camagüey city.
The Manuel Ascunce Domenech Provincial Hospital has treated 34 individuals; the Military Hospital reported three initially severe cases, and the Amalia Simoni Provincial Hospital attended to two injured persons. Meanwhile, two minors were under observation at the Pediatric Hospital but were not in danger.
Official information indicated that medical personnel were mobilized across the province to ensure prompt and high-quality care for the injured.
An emergency response operation was also activated, involving the Ministry of the Interior (Minint), firefighters, healthcare personnel, and provincial authorities.
Local government efforts included providing accommodation and meals for the relatives of the injured and ensuring the availability of necessary medical and logistical resources for victim care, according to official sources.
Understanding the Camagüey Accident and Its Aftermath
What caused the accident in Camagüey?
The exact cause of the accident has not been revealed by authorities. Preliminary reports suggest that the bus veered off the road and overturned, but further details are pending.
How many people were affected by the crash?
Over 30 people were injured, with two fatalities reported—a young child and an elderly man. Several of the injured are in critical or severe condition.
What measures were taken following the accident?
Emergency protocols were activated, including the mobilization of medical personnel and transport. The injured were treated at local medical facilities, and a response team was involved to aid in recovery operations.