A tragic accident in the Peruvian Andes has resulted in nine fatalities and at least fifteen injuries after a minibus carrying holidaymakers on an excursion plunged down a hillside. The vehicle was approximately ten miles from the famous 17,969-foot Rajuntay mountain when the crash occurred around 5 p.m. local time yesterday.
Emergency Response and Casualty Details
Local firefighters reported that around twenty-five tourists and their guides were on board the minibus when it veered off the road and overturned on the highway toward Marcapomacocha. Peru's Health Ministry confirmed in an overnight statement that nine people have died, with seven fatalities at the scene and two later in hospital. Fifteen injured individuals have been transferred to four different hospitals for treatment.
Rescue Operations and Medical Care
Firefighters involved in the rescue operation described an immediate emergency triage upon arrival, allowing victims to be classified by injury severity and prioritised for evacuation. The affected individuals were evaluated and stabilised on site before being transported to local health centres. A more serious case was referred to the Hospital of Matucana, while others were taken to the Casapalca clinic, with support from the National Police of Peru.
Pictures from the scene show the crashed vehicle on its roof, with passenger belongings scattered on the ground around it. The Ministry of Health has pledged to continue offering full assistance to the casualties through its emergency teams.
Investigation and Possible Causes
An investigation into the cause of the accident is ongoing today. Local reports suggest that foggy conditions in the area at the time could have been a contributing factor. It remains unclear whether any foreign tourists, including British or Irish nationals, were among the dead or injured.
About Rajuntay Mountain
Rajuntay is described online as a breathtaking destination for adventure seekers, with hikers attempting to reach its peak recommended to have previous trekking experience. Many tours from Lima typically depart on Saturday nights and return on Sundays, highlighting the popularity of this excursion route.
This is a developing story, and further updates are expected as more information becomes available.
