Tragedy in Mexico: 10 Dead, 61 Injured as Train Collides with Double-Decker Bus

A devastating collision between a freight train and a double-decker passenger bus in central Mexico has left 10 people dead—seven women and three men—and dozens more injured. The accident occurred in an industrial area along the highway connecting Atlacomulco, roughly 115 km northwest of Mexico City, to Maravatio in Michoacan state.

Canadian Pacific Kansas City de Mexico, the railway operator, expressed condolences to the victims’ families and urged drivers to respect road signs and stop orders at railroad crossings, Reuters reported. Bus operator Herradura de Plata did not immediately comment.

Images from the scene showed the bus’s upper deck smashed and its metal frame severely dented, as first responders secured the area. Authorities said some injured were in critical condition, while others were quickly discharged from hospitals.

Deadly bus crashes are unfortunately common in Latin America. Mexico’s federal highway report for 2023 recorded 12,099 collisions, causing 6,400 injuries, nearly 1,900 deaths, and over $100 million in damages. Earlier this year, a bus traveling from Cancun to Tabasco collided with a truck, killing over 40 passengers.

Buses remain a primary mode of transport in Mexico, while passenger rail routes are limited. The government of President Claudia Sheinbaum plans to expand the passenger rail network, connecting northern and central regions to improve safety and accessibility.