A fatal accident at Bujaabe Village in Nakitoma Subcounty, Nakasongola District, has left two people dead and twelve others injured.
The tragedy occurred on Tuesday evening at around 6:08 PM, involving three vehicles: an Isuzu Elf truck, a Toyota Hiace van, and a Nile Star company bus.
According to Savannah Region PRO ASP Sam Twiineamazima, preliminary investigations reveal that the accident was triggered by a mechanical failure.
The front tire of the Nile Star bus (registration number UBD 215R) detached while the bus was trailing the Toyota Hiace van (registration number UBR 783N) heading towards Gulu.
The bus lost control and collided head-on with an Isuzu Elf truck (registration number UBP 557B) coming from Kampala.
The driver of the Isuzu Elf truck died instantly, while a young child in the Toyota Hiace succumbed to injuries shortly after being rushed to Kiryandongo Hospital.
Both victims remain unidentified. Twelve other passengers sustained injuries ranging from minor to severe and were promptly taken to Kyinyogoga Hospital for medical attention.
Residents near the scene expressed their distress at the incident.
“We heard a loud bang, and when we arrived, there was chaos everywhere. People were trapped in the vehicles, and some were screaming for help,” said James Odongo, a witness.
Police swiftly responded to the scene, documenting evidence and facilitating the evacuation of victims.
“We ensured the victims were taken to Kyinyogoga Hospital, and the deceased were conveyed to Kyinyogoga mortuary for postmortem examination,” added ASP Twiineamazima.
The vehicles involved were towed to Nakitoma Police Station for further inspection.
“Our officers will work with the Inspectorate of Vehicles to determine whether mechanical faults or driver negligence contributed to the accident,” he said.
Police have urged road users to prioritise safety and maintain their vehicles.
“This tragic accident underscores the importance of regular vehicle maintenance and cautious driving,” said ASP Twiineamazima.