Tragic Bus Crash in Florida Leaves 8 Dead and Dozens Injured
WhatsApp Group
In what authorities are dubbing a “massive traffic homicide investigation,” the Florida Highway Patrol reported that eight people died and at least 40 were injured in a migrant bus accident in Marion County on Tuesday morning.
Road Tragedy Unfolds
According to the Florida Highway Patrol, a 2010 international bus was traveling west on State Road 40 when it collided with a 2001 Ford Ranger Truck heading east around 6:30 a.m., approximately 500 feet west of SW 148 Court.
Migrant Workers in Transit
The bus was carrying 53 migrant workers to a nearby farm, authorities revealed. The FHP is still piecing together the sequence of events leading to the collision, which sent the bus off the road, through a fence, before overturning in what locals describe as a horse farm pasture.
Long Road to Answers
During a press conference on Tuesday afternoon, FHP officials stated that the accident investigation will be lengthy. They also noted the increased presence of migrant workers in Marion County this time of year, owing to its sizable agricultural industry.
Community in Mourning
Describing them as “hardworking individuals,” Marion County Sheriff Billy Woods expressed belief that everyone on the bus was legally present in the county. Over 30 ambulances and a Marion County school bus were deployed to transport victims to regional hospitals.
Medical Response and Support
AdventHealth Ocala is currently treating several accident victims and issued a statement expressing solidarity: “Our prayers are with all affected by the tragic bus accident in Ocala this morning. AdventHealth is currently treating 16 patients, with 12 in our main emergency department at AdventHealth Ocala and four at AdventHealth Timber Ridge ER.”
As authorities work to notify the victims’ families, Sheriff Woods extended his heartfelt condolences. “This is the kind of loss you don’t anticipate,” he said. “I pray that the good Lord gives them all the peace they can to help them get through this.”
As the investigation unfolds, State Road 40 remains closed between US 41 and West County Road 328 between Ocala and Dunnellon, with authorities advising drivers to steer clear of the area.
