Bangkok, Thailand – Tragedy struck in the outskirts of Bangkok when a school bus carrying over 40 students and teachers on a field trip caught fire, resulting in the loss of at least 23 lives, according to authorities on Tuesday.
The incident led to the identification of 23 bodies, as confirmed by Trairong Phiwpan, the forensic science commissioner. Investigations into the causes of the fire are currently ongoing. Sixteen students and three teachers were transported to a hospital for necessary treatment, as reported by Transport Minister Suriya Juangroongruangkit.
Pictures circulating on social media and local news platforms depicted thick grey smoke billowing out of the bus, with parts of it still engulfed in flames. Firefighters, police, and rescue teams worked tirelessly to extinguish the fire, while authorities examined the scene for evidence.
Acting police chief Kittirat Phanphet revealed during a press conference that witnesses recounted the fire spreading rapidly. Initial assessments suggested that the explosion may have been triggered by a spark from a tire that ignited the gas cylinder powering the vehicle. Some students managed to escape through the windows, according to the police chief.
The bus, which was fueled by natural gas, was confirmed by Transport Minister Suriya. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra expressed her deepest condolences to the families of the students who were on a field trip from the province of Uthai Thani, located approximately 250 km north of Bangkok.
Authorities are thoroughly investigating all possible factors, including the bus company, to determine if negligence played a role in the tragic incident. The community mourns the loss of young lives and hopes to unveil the full circumstances surrounding the devastating school bus fire in the near future.