Bus Crash Leaves Over 20 People Dead

(RepublicanPress.org) – According to Expatica, personal vehicles are the most common way people get around in Italy, but there are many public transportation options as well used by locals and visitors alike. Unfortunately, just like any other mode of transportation, using public transport options can end in tragedy.

On October 3, Venice Mayor Luigi Brugnaro announced that there was a bus accident in the city. Sadly, the incident claimed the lives of several travelers. He called it an “apocalyptic scene” and said the city was now in mourning. The New York Post reported that at least 21 people died during the incident and 18 additional individuals were injured — some seriously — meaning the death toll could eventually end up higher. The bus, filled with mainly international tourists, was traveling to a campsite when it drove through a carrier on an elevated street and plummeted to the ground in Mestre — just outside of Venice.

At least 20 people dead after bus plunges off bridge in Venice's Mestre district – officials https://t.co/hE4eV3pHBp

— BBC Breaking News (@BBCBreaking) October 3, 2023

According to The NY Post, the city’s firefighters were quickly on the scene, but the crew’s commander said the people inside were “surrounded by flames,” and it took first responders “about one hour” to get the bodies out of the vehicle. Venice prefect Michele Di Bari said two children, five Ukrainians, one German, and the Italian bus driver — Alberto Rizzotto — were among the dead. Some of the injured parties still receiving care in local hospitals were from France, Spain, and Croatia — to name a few regions.

Local hero Godstime Erheneden heard the commotion from his apartment nearby and rushed to the scene. He entered the wreckage and successfully pulled several people to safety. Rescuers took over when they arrived, but Erheneden had already carried out at least three people.

USA Today reported that Venice city councilor Renato Boraso confirmed Rizzotto was an experienced driver. Venice authorities are investigating the incident but have revealed no cause so far.