Tragedy strikes as wedding bus crash claims ten lives in Australia's Hunter Valley
In a devastating incident, at least ten individuals have lost their lives, while more than 20 others have been hospitalized following a bus crash in the renowned Australian wine region.
The passengers were returning from a wedding ceremony at a local winery on Sunday night when their coach overturned at approximately 23:30 local time.
The bus overturned as it was negotiating a turn at a roundabout off a highway. The exact cause of the accident is yet to be determined.
The driver of the bus, a 58-year-old man, has been apprehended and is now in police custody. NSW Police Acting Assistant Commissioner Tracy Chapman disclosed that the guests were en route to Singleton, presumably for their accommodation, when the tragic incident transpired.
At present, the death toll stands at ten, but there are concerns that it may rise further.
Twenty-five passengers have been transported to hospitals, with two of them being airlifted from the crash site.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese conveyed his condolences, describing the incident as "cruel, sad, and unfair."