At least 41 people have been killed after a bus collided with a truck in southern Mexico’s Tabasco state, authorities confirmed. The incident occurred in the early hours of Saturday, February 8, 2025, near Escárcega. The bus, operated by Tours Acosta, was traveling between Cancun and Tabasco with 48 people on board when it crashed into a truck that veered into its lane.
According to officials, 38 passengers died at the scene, along with both drivers of the bus and the truck driver. The impact caused the bus to catch fire, leaving the vehicle completely burned out, with only its metal frame remaining. Recovery efforts continue as authorities work to identify victims.
Tours Acosta reported that the bus was in excellent condition and traveling at a safe, moderate speed in full compliance with federal traffic regulations when it crashed. The company stated that the collision was unavoidable despite the driver’s efforts.
Expressing deep sorrow, Tours Acosta acknowledged the loss of valued colleagues, clients, and friends, emphasizing the tragedy’s profound impact. The company also expressed gratitude for the support and solidarity it received during this difficult period.
Local government officials are working alongside federal and Campeche authorities to ensure a coordinated response. Tabasco Governor Javier May Rodríguez confirmed efforts to “provide the required assistance” and stated that the government secretary is closely monitoring developments. Authorities remain engaged in assessing needs and delivering support to those affected.
Ovidio Peralta, mayor of Comalcalco, a town in Tabasco, also stated, “We are attentive to the federal and state authorities to help with whatever they request.” Meanwhile, the Palacio Municipal de Comalcalco described the crash as a “tragic accident” and confirmed its support in transferring the bodies of the victims.
Authorities have investigated the crash, with the public ministry handling the case in Candelaria, Campeche. Tours Acosta informed families they must go to this department to complete the necessary procedures. Officials have pledged to provide updates as identification efforts continue.
The collision marks one of the deadliest road accidents in Mexico in recent years. Recovery teams remain at the site, working to account for all victims. The Mexican government has yet to release a complete list of those affected. Investigations will determine whether additional factors contributed to the tragedy.
In another tragic accident, 19 people were killed and six others injured when a bus heading to Juárez crashed on a highway in the central Mexican state of Zacatecas. The crash occurred early on October 26, 2024, causing the bus to roll and fall into a ravine. Authorities reported that the Omnibus de Mexico bus was traveling from Tepic, Nayarit, to Juárez, Chihuahua, when it collided with the back of a tractor-trailer carrying corn that had come loose.
Initially, the Zacatecas governor reported a preliminary death toll of 24, but the state attorney general’s office later revised the number.
Another fatal collision occurred on Mexico’s Gulf coast on a highway near Xalapa, Veracruz. The crash, which took place before dawn on Friday, December 27, 2024, left eight people dead and 27 others injured. Prosecutors confirmed that most victims were passengers aboard an ADO-line bus. Among the deceased were three men, four women, and a girl.
These incidents highlight the ongoing concerns about road safety in Mexico, particularly on highways with high traffic and rugged terrain. Investigations into each crash aim to determine accountability and implement measures to prevent future tragedies.
