Two Cuban migrants and more than 30 others from various nationalities emerged unscathed from a traffic accident on a southern Guatemalan highway early Monday morning when the bus they were traveling in overturned.
The incident occurred at kilometer 72 in the jurisdiction of Siquinalá, in the department of Escuintla, and involved 36 bus passengers: 29 Venezuelans, three Colombians, one Dominican, one Haitian, and the two Cubans. Among the travelers were five minors, according to a statement by the Civil National Police (PNC).
After the accident, police officers and rescue teams provided the necessary assistance to the individuals, reportedly suffering no significant injuries, as none required specialized medical attention. The PNC noted that rescuers "indicated that hospitalization was unnecessary."
"Personnel from the Siquinalá police substation provided food and protection while coordinating their transfer to a Guatemalan Migration Institute facility for the relevant procedures," the police said.
Authorities continued their investigations on Monday to apprehend the bus driver, who fled the scene.
Last February, nine Cuban migrants perished in a car accident on a Guatemalan highway while traveling towards the country’s border with Mexico. Only one Cuban survived the crash.
Guatemala is one of the countries that thousands of Cuban and other national migrants traverse en route to the southern border of the United States, seeking asylum in the nation.
Migrants from Cuba embark on this perilous journey determined to reach Mexico and secure a CBP One appointment to present themselves at a U.S. port of entry and request asylum.
Questions and Answers About the Bus Accident Involving Cuban Migrants
Here are some frequently asked questions and answers regarding the recent bus accident in Guatemala involving Cuban migrants.
Where did the bus accident occur?
The accident happened at kilometer 72 in the jurisdiction of Siquinalá, in the department of Escuintla, Guatemala.
How many passengers were involved in the bus accident?
The bus was carrying 36 passengers: 29 Venezuelans, three Colombians, one Dominican, one Haitian, and two Cubans, including five minors.
Did anyone sustain serious injuries in the accident?
No, the authorities reported that none of the passengers required specialized medical attention.
What happened to the bus driver?
The bus driver fled the scene, and authorities are continuing their investigations to capture him.