EDITOR
The death toll from the tragic road accident along the Lyantonde–Masaka road has risen to 11, according to an update from traffic police.
Earlier reports had confirmed eight fatalities following the crash, which occurred at around 1:30 AM on Tuesday at Kalegero corner. The accident involved a Kasaba bus, registration number UAL 492H, traveling from Rukungiri to Kampala, and an oncoming Fuso truck.
Greater Masaka Regional Police Spokesperson Twaha Kagabo said three more victims succumbed to their injuries while receiving treatment at various health facilities, bringing the total number of the dead to 11. All the deceased are believed to have been passengers on the bus, most of whom were seated in the front section at the time of the crash.
The bodies of the deceased have been taken to Masaka Regional Referral Hospital mortuary pending postmortem examinations.
Several other survivors remain hospitalized with injuries of varying severity, with medical teams working to stabilize those in critical condition.
Preliminary police investigations suggest that the accident may have been caused by a pothole along the road. It is reported that the bus driver attempted to swerve to avoid the pothole but instead rammed into the oncoming truck.
Police have since cautioned motorists to exercise extra vigilance while using the road, especially at night, as investigations into the exact cause of the crash continue. Officers are still at the scene managing traffic flow and overseeing the removal of the wreckage for further inspection.
