Eleven Dead, Seven Injured in Head-on Bus-Truck Collision in Southern Brazil

Tragic Accident Claims Eleven Lives in Rio Grande do Sul

A severe head-on collision involving a bus and a truck on a federal highway in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil's southernmost state, has resulted in the deaths of at least 11 people. The accident occurred on Friday, January 2, 2026, around 11:30 a.m. local time (1430 GMT). In addition to the fatalities, seven individuals sustained injuries and were transported to nearby hospitals for treatment, according to statements from the Federal Highway Police.

Rescue Efforts Challenged by Spilled Cargo

The aftermath of the collision presented significant challenges for rescue teams. Authorities reported that part of the truck's sand cargo spilled into the bus upon impact. This made it difficult for rescuers to access the vehicle and extract victims and injured passengers, complicating the immediate response to the tragic event.

Investigation Underway

The Federal Highway Police have initiated an investigation to determine the precise cause of the accident. Details regarding the circumstances leading to the head-on crash, including potential factors such as vehicle condition, driver actions, or road conditions, are expected to emerge as the inquiry progresses.

Location and Time of Incident

The collision took place on a federal highway within the state of Rio Grande do Sul, a region known for its extensive road network connecting various parts of southern Brazil. The timing of the accident, late morning on a Friday, may have contributed to traffic conditions, though specific details are part of the ongoing investigation.