At least ten people have been killed in the crash of a bus carrying wedding guests in the Hunter wine region, north of Sydney, Australian police said on Monday.
A total of 25 passengers were taken to hospital, including two by helicopter, police official Tracy Chapman said.
Footage broadcast by television stations showed the light-coloured coach flipped on its side on a foggy night, surrounded by rescue workers wearing fluorescent vests.
Police were called shortly before midnight on Sunday to the scene of the accident, at a junction near the small town of Greta, about 150 km from Sydney, in an area popular with tourists.
The 58-year-old bus driver was tested at the hospital and is “under arrest” ahead of possible charges, Ms Chapman said, without specifying whether the checks are whether or not they were positive.
She explained that the passengers had attended a wedding together, and that they were probably returning to their accommodations after the festivities.
“All Australians waking up to this tragic news from the Hunter send their deepest condolences to the loved ones of those killed in this horrific tragedy,” Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said.
“It is cruel that a day of joy should end with such a heartbreaking loss. Our hearts also go out to those who have been hurt,” he added in a social media post.
12/06/2023 17:08:45 – Sydney (AFP) – © 2023 AFP
