The death toll from a school bus crash in eastern Uganda has risen to 24, authorities confirmed on Friday. The fatal accident occurred late Thursday night when a bus carrying pupils and teachers from King David Junior School in Kampala overturned in Kapchorwa district. Among the victims are 23 children and one adult.
According to police, the bus was returning to Kampala following a school trip to Sipi Falls when the driver lost control of the vehicle near Chekwatit village. The bus overturned and collided with a large stone, causing severe injuries and fatalities. Six of the deceased children have yet to be identified. The adult who died in the crash is reported to be the school’s founder and head.
Several children suffered injuries in the incident and were rushed to nearby hospitals. As of Friday, 23 injured pupils remain hospitalized at Kapchorwa General Hospital receiving medical care. Police also noted that three other vehicles accompanying the group on the same excursion returned to Kampala without incident.
Investigations are ongoing to determine the precise cause of the driver’s loss of control. The incident has prompted concern over the safety of student transportation in the region. Local officials have yet to release further details on the driver or additional circumstances surrounding the crash.
