NINE people have died and at least 15 have been left injured after a minibus crash in the Peruvian Andes.
The vehicle had been taking holidaymakers on an excursion to a mountain in the Peruvian Andes when it plunged down a hill.
According to local firefighters, at least 25 tourists and their guides were in the minibus when it crashed.
The tour bus had been about 10 miles from the famous 17,969 feet Rajuntay mountain at the time of the horrific ordeal.
Peru’s Health Ministry confirmed the tragedy in a statement overnight.
“The incident has left 15 people injured who have been transferred to four different hospitals,” they said.
“Nine people have died, seven at the scene of the accident and two in hospital.
“Through its emergency teams, the Ministry of health will continue to offer full assistance to the casualties.”
Firefighters who attended the crash said the tourist bus had “veered off the road and overturned on the highway toward Marcapomacocha”.
“Upon our arrival, an emergency triage was immediately carried out, allowing the victims to be classified according to the severity of their injuries and prioritising their evacuation to health centres with greater capacity for care,” they confirmed.
“Subsequently, the affected individuals were evaluated and stabilised on site.”
They said other patients had been rushed to other health centres in the region, including one more serious case that had been referred to the Hospital of Matucana.
“Others [were taken] to the Casapalca clinic, with the support of the National Police of Peru.”
It remains unknown if any tourists on the bus were foreign.
The fatal crash happened at 5pm on Sunday.
Pictures from the scene show the horrifying state of the minibus.
After it veered off the road it was left upside down and crushed, with passengers’ belongings flung on the ground around it.
An investigation into the cause of the accident was launched and remains ongoing.
Local media has reported that the foggy conditions in the area at the time could have been a factor.
Rajuntay has been described online as a breathtaking destination for adventure seekers.
Hikers trying to reach the peak are recommended to have previous trekking experience.
Tours often depart from Lima on Saturday nights and return Sunday.
