A British man has tragically died and dozens of other tourists were injured, some seriously, when a holiday bus crashed into a steep ravine on the island of La Gomera in the Canary Islands. The devastating incident occurred shortly after 1pm local time on Friday, involving a vehicle carrying 27 British nationals on a tourist excursion.
Emergency Response and Casualties
According to statements from the local government, the bus crashed off the GM-2 road near San Sebastian de La Gomera, on the eastern coast of the island. One man lost his life in the accident, while four individuals sustained serious injuries. In total, 23 other people suffered minor injuries in the harrowing crash.
Hospital Transfers and Medical Care
Emergency services, including firefighters, police units, the Spanish Red Cross, and multiple ambulances, were swiftly deployed to the scene. An air ambulance was also among the responders attending to the British tourists and the driver. Two men, aged 73 and 42, who suffered traumatic injuries were initially taken to Nuestra Senora de Guadalupe Hospital in San Sebastian de La Gomera. Both were later transferred by helicopter to more specialised hospitals on the neighbouring island of Tenerife for further treatment.
Official Statements and Support
The Foreign Office confirmed on Friday evening that the deceased was a British national. A spokesperson stated: "We are supporting the family of a British man who died in the bus accident in the Canary Islands and are in contact with the local authorities." Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper expressed her condolences, saying her thoughts are with those affected by the "tragic" incident.
She added that the Government is in touch with local authorities and "ready to support" British citizens and their families. Those requiring assistance can contact the FCDO on +44 20 7008 5000 or +34 928 262 508.
Scene of the Accident
Photographs shared by the Canary Islands government on social media appear to show the bus had veered off the road at a hairpin bend, coming to rest in a ravine. The accident prompted the Canary Islands government to issue a state of alert at 2pm in response to the emergency situation.
Shortly afterwards, president of the Canary Islands Fernando Clavijo posted on social media to express his support for the victims and their families during this difficult time. The crash serves as a sobering reminder of the risks associated with mountain road travel in popular tourist destinations.
