At least 37 people have been killed after a passenger bus plunged into a deep ravine in northern Peru, local authorities said on Tuesday.
The tragic accident occurred in the early hours of the morning near the town of Otuzco, in the La Libertad region, when the bus veered off a winding mountain road and fell about 200 meters (650 feet) into a gorge.
According to police reports, the bus was traveling from Huanchaco to Retamas, carrying more than 50 passengers, including children. Rescue teams rushed to the scene, but the remote location made emergency operations difficult.
Several people were also injured and transported to nearby hospitals for treatment. Local officials believe that excessive speed or poor road conditions may have contributed to the crash.
Peru’s mountain roads are known for their dangerous curves and steep cliffs, and accidents like this are unfortunately common, especially in rural areas where safety standards are lower.
Authorities say an investigation is underway to determine the exact cause of the tragedy.