MONTEVIDEO, Uruguay — Early Saturday, a public transit bus veered off course in Montevideo’s upscale Pocitos neighborhood, crashing through a retaining wall and ending up on the beach near the water’s edge. The incident left 15 people injured, with six in serious condition, authorities reported.
The unexpected accident occurred along the busy coastal promenade, causing significant damage to both the bus and the surrounding infrastructure. Preliminary investigations suggest that brake failure may have caused the driver to lose control. According to National Navy spokesperson Alejandro Perez, the brake malfunction is the primary theory, although authorities are continuing to gather details to confirm the cause.
The driver, who suffered severe injuries after being ejected through the windshield, was among those in critical condition. Emergency responders arrived promptly, providing assistance to the injured passengers. Nine people sustained minor injuries, while six others remain in serious condition, receiving medical care.
The Trouville Prefecture, responsible for coastal safety in the area, is leading the investigation alongside city transportation officials.