At least 25 people, many of them teenagers, died when a school bus veered off a road and plunged approximately 100 feet into a ravine in Cape Verde on Saturday evening. The bus was traveling along the Campanas de Cima route, a winding and mountainous road connecting to São Filipe on the island of Fogo.
The bus had been returning to São Filipe after an excursion to Cha das Caldeiras, a village situated within the crater of the Pico do Fogo volcano. Authorities reported that 32 people were on board when the bus left the road. Rescue crews faced challenges recovering victims due to the steep and difficult terrain.
Several individuals survived the crash but sustained injuries. Approximately a dozen passengers were taken to São Francisco de Assis Regional Hospital, with four reported in serious condition. The hospital experienced significant pressure, requiring additional medical staff and a private doctor to treat the injured.
Most of the deceased were secondary school students from Curral Grande and Ponta Verde. The bus driver was also among those killed. Local officials stated that the driver, who had made the outing an annual tradition for the students he transported, had arranged the excursion himself. The trip was reportedly linked to celebrations honoring Our Lady of Light, and these festivities have now been canceled.
Seven victims were buried early Sunday due to the condition of their bodies, according to local media. Further funerals were anticipated later that day. The exact circumstances leading to the bus leaving the road are under investigation.
Cape Verde President José Maria Pereira Neves described the incident as a "great catastrophe" and offered condolences to the bereaved. He was scheduled to travel to Fogo on Sunday to meet with those affected. The São Filipe Municipal Council declared two days of official mourning and pledged support for the victims' families and the community.