66 Dead in Tragic Road Accident in Ethiopia

The incident occurred in Sidama state, located about 300 kilometers (180 miles) south of Addis Ababa, the Ethiopian capital. According to a statement from the Sidama Regional Health Bureau, the crash took place in the Eastern Zone, near Gelana Bridge in Bona Zuria Woreda. The health bureau reported the tragedy on Facebook, stating that “66 lives have been lost so far,” though it did not provide further details about the cause of the accident.

In addition to the fatalities, four survivors were injured and are currently receiving medical care at Bona General Hospital.

Photos shared by the health bureau show emergency responders and bystanders gathered around the wreckage, with one image depicting a vehicle partially submerged in water, as people attempted to rescue victims. Other images showed bodies lying on the ground, some covered with blue tarpaulins.

The bureau expressed condolences to the victims' families and assured the public that more information would be released as investigations continue.

The crash’s exact circumstances remain unclear, including the number of vehicles involved and how many people were on board at the time of the incident. Ethiopia has long struggled with road safety issues, with frequent accidents attributed to poorly maintained roads and vehicles.

The tragedy highlights the ongoing challenges facing the country's transportation infrastructure and the devastating human cost of such accidents.