A devastating bus accident involving British tourists in the Canary Islands has resulted in one fatality and left 27 individuals injured, according to local government reports. The incident occurred on Friday, 10 April 2026, along the GM-2 road in San Sebastian de La Gomera, on the island of La Gomera.
Emergency Response and Casualties
Emergency services were swiftly deployed to the scene after receiving reports around 1pm that a bus had veered off the road and slid down a slope into a ravine. The response included firefighters, police, the Spanish Red Cross, and multiple ambulances, with an air ambulance also dispatched to assist.
Officials confirmed that a man has died in the crash. Among the injured, four people sustained serious traumatic injuries, while 23 others suffered minor wounds. Two seriously injured individuals, identified as a 73-year-old man and a 42-year-old man, were initially taken to Nuestra Senora de Guadalupe Hospital in San Sebastian de La Gomera before being transferred by helicopter to hospitals in Tenerife for advanced care.
Government and Official Reactions
In response to the tragedy, the Canary Islands government activated a state of alert at 2pm. President of the Canary Islands Fernando Clavijo expressed his support for the victims and their families in a social media post, emphasizing solidarity during this difficult time.
Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper also addressed the incident, stating her thoughts are with those affected by what she described as a "tragic" event. She assured that the British government is in contact with local authorities and stands ready to provide support to British nationals and their families. Affected individuals can contact the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) for assistance.
Scene of the Accident
Photographs shared by the Canary Islands government on social media depict the bus after it came off the road at a sharp hairpin bend, ultimately resting in a ravine. The images highlight the challenging terrain and the severity of the crash, which prompted a large-scale emergency operation.
The bus was carrying a group of British holidaymakers, and the driver was among those attended to by emergency responders. The exact cause of the accident remains under investigation, but initial reports suggest it involved the vehicle losing control on a bend.
This incident underscores the risks associated with road travel in mountainous regions and has drawn attention to the importance of safety measures for tourists. The local and British authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, providing updates as more information becomes available.
