A tour bus carrying a study group from Bueng Kan Province overturned in the early hours of February 26, 2025, on the descent of Khao Sala Pu Thon in Prachin Buri Province. The accident resulted in 18 fatalities and left more than 30 people injured. Authorities believe brake failure may have contributed to the crash.
Police Lieutenant Colonel Siwaphat Phuriphatchaibuncho of Wang Khon Daeng Police Station received the accident report at approximately 03:00. The bus, a Scania with registration number 30-0040 Bueng Kan, had overturned onto its side against a mountain. Emergency responders were dispatched to the scene with cutting and prying equipment, while ambulances transported the injured to multiple hospitals, including Thap Lan Health Promotion Hospital, Na Di Hospital, and Kabin Buri Hospital. Victims sustained a range of injuries, from lacerations and broken bones to head trauma.
Investigations revealed that the bus was one of three vehicles transporting members of a Village Waste Bank Committee from Phon Charoen Subdistrict Municipality on an educational trip to Rayong Province. The accident involved the third bus, which was carrying 49 people, including two drivers. Officials suspect that the driver may have been unfamiliar with the steep and curving road. Khao Sala Pu Thon has a history of accidents, with previous crashes often attributed to brake failure on the descent.
Authorities closed the downbound lane as rescue operations continued. Officials and emergency responders worked through the morning to assist survivors and clear the wreckage.
