37 Killed in Deadly Peru Bus Crash After Falling Into Ravine

A devastating bus accident in southern Peru has claimed at least 37 lives and left 24 others injured, authorities confirmed on Wednesday. The incident, which occurred in the Arequipa region, is being described as one of the worst road tragedies in Peru in recent years.

According to local officials, the bus operated by Llamosas company was en route from the coastal town of Chala in Caraveli province to Arequipa city when it collided head-on with a pickup truck along a winding section of the Panamericana Sur highway — a major route connecting Peru with Chile.

Following the collision, the bus careened off the road and plunged nearly 200 meters (650 feet) into a ravine, causing catastrophic damage and multiple fatalities on impact. Emergency crews and firefighters rushed to the scene to rescue survivors and recover the bodies from the steep terrain.

Walther Oporto, the regional health manager of Arequipa, confirmed the death toll, stating, “We have a figure of 37 fatalities, in addition to 24 injured.” Several of the injured passengers remain in critical condition and have been transported to nearby hospitals for urgent treatment.

Witnesses reported that the crash occurred on a sharp curve known for frequent accidents due to poor visibility and narrow lanes. Local authorities have since launched an investigation to determine whether excessive speed, fatigue, or mechanical failure played a role in the tragedy.

Peru has long struggled with road safety issues, with accidents often linked to speeding, poorly maintained vehicles, and insufficient road infrastructure. According to transportation experts, the latest Peru bus accident underscores the urgent need for stricter regulations and enhanced enforcement on high-risk highways.

The Arequipa regional government has announced plans to review transport company safety records and increase patrols along the Panamericana Sur to prevent similar incidents in the future.

As Peru mourns the victims of this horrific crash, families across the country are demanding accountability and stronger action to ensure passenger safety on the nation’s roads.