Such: A holiday trip through the scenic Swiss Alps turned into a tragedy after a Dutch tourist bus crashed in eastern Switzerland on Friday, leaving at least five people dead and 40 others injured.
The bus, carrying 48 Dutch nationals, met with the accident near the village of Susch, located between Susch and Zernez in the Graubünden canton of Switzerland. Authorities said the coach hit a safety barrier before losing control, overturning and plunging down an embankment.
Three passengers seriously injured
According to Swiss police, three people sustained serious injuries in the crash, while seven others suffered moderately serious injuries. Around 30 passengers received minor injuries and were provided medical assistance.
Emergency responders immediately reached the remote Alpine location and launched rescue operations. The injured passengers were shifted to nearby hospitals for treatment.
Bus operated by Dutch tour company
The vehicle was operated by Dutch travel company OAD. A spokesperson for the General Dutch Association of Travel Companies confirmed that all passengers on board were Dutch citizens.
The company expressed shock over the accident and said its thoughts were with the victims, injured passengers and their families.
Investigation underway
Swiss authorities have started a detailed investigation to determine the exact cause of the crash. Officials are examining factors including road conditions, vehicle condition and possible driver-related issues.
Swiss President Guy Parmelin expressed condolences and assured that authorities would conduct a thorough investigation into the incident.
Popular Alpine route turns into accident site
The crash took place near Zernez, which serves as a gateway for tourists visiting the Swiss National Park, one of Europe's largest protected Alpine areas spread across the Engadine valley.
The accident has raised fresh concerns over safety on mountainous roads, where sharp turns, steep slopes and changing weather conditions can make travel challenging.