The death toll is feared to rise after a semi-trailer collided with a bus predominantly carrying elderly passengers in Canada.
At least 15 people have been killed and 10 injured after a bus collided with a truck along a major highway in southwest Canada.
Royal Canadian Mounted Police revealed the bus had been crossing an eastbound lane at an intersection between two highways when it was struck by the truck at Manitoba in Carberry about 11.40am on Thursday (local time).
Commanding officer Rob Hill told reporters at a press conference there were 25 people, predominantly seniors, in the bus travelling from Dauphin.
Mr Hill said the death toll is feared to escalate as the remaining 10 passengers were taken to hospital with varying injuries.
“Sadly this is a day in Manitoba and across Canada that will be remembered as one of tragedy and incredible sadness,” he said.
A semi-trailer collided with a bus in Canada. Picture: Skilled Truckers Canada
“Above all, I want to express my deepest condolences on behalf of the (Royal Canadian Mounted Police) to every family member who is grieving today.
“I also want to acknowledge there are many people in Dauphin and the surrounding areas who are anxiously awaiting news about a loved one.”
Major Crimes Services Superintendent Rob Lasson said they were keeping an open mind to whether there was a “criminal element” in their investigations.
He confirmed both drivers were alive and being treated in hospital, stating that determining who had a right of way was a “critical point” of their inquiries.
In an earlier statement, police revealed they feared the worst when they were first alerted to the incident.
The vehicle was on fire, with smoke billowing from the scene. Picture: Skilled Truckers Australia
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“Immediately, it become apparent that this was a mass casualty situation,” police said in a statement.
“At this time we can confirm there were 15 fatalities, and 10 people taken to hospital with various injuries.”
A major emergency service response was initiated as all Manitoba police resources were deployed to the scene and highway closures were put in place.
Photos emerging from the incident showed a vehicle, believed to be the bus, engulfed in flames and billowing smoke, before being reduced to its frame.
The vehicle was reduced to its frame after it was engulfed in flames. Picture: Skilled Truckers Canada
Forensic identifiers, collision reconstructionists and major crime services are on scene piecing together the circumstances surrounding the crash.
A family support centre has been established in Dauphin in the basement of the Lutheran Church so officers can address concerns from loved ones.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau offered his condolences following the tragedy.
“The news from Carberry, Manitoba is incredibly tragic. I’m sending my deepest condolences to those who lost loved ones today, and I’m keeping the injured in my thoughts,” he wrote on social media.
Smoke could be seen coming from the vehicle following the crash. Picture: Skilled Truckers Canada
“I cannot imagine the pain those affected are feeling – but Canadians are here for you.”
Premier of Manitoba Heather Stefanson said her “heart goes out to the families and loved ones of those tragically lost”.
“Our hearts are broken, and our thoughts are with the families and loved ones of all the lives impacted by the horrific and devastating tragedy near the Town of Carberry,” she wrote in a statement.
“I know our dedicated first responders and health-care workers are doing all they can to assist, and I want to thank them on behalf of all Manitobans.
“The flags at the Legislative Building have been lowered to half-mast out of respect for those we have tragically lost.”