Eight Dead After Phoenix-Bound Bus and Semi-Truck Collide in New Mexico

Phoenix, Arizona—A Greyhound bus headed for Phoenix collided with a semi-truck in northwestern New Mexico on Thursday afternoon.  The nearly-full bus originated in St. Louis.  It had just made a stop in Albuquerque and was scheduled to make another in Phoenix before reaching its destination in Los Angeles.

The accident occurred at about 12:30 p.m. on Thursday when a semi-truck traveling eastbound on Interstate 40 blew a tire, causing the driver to lose control. The semi-truck crossed the center line then struck the bus head-on.  

Most of the forty-nine people on board were taken to hospitals with varying degrees of injuries.  Four children and 16 adults were treated at Gallup Indian Medical Center.  Six patients were transported to University of New Mexico Hospital, and four to one of the Banner hospitals in Phoenix.  Accident investigators with the New Mexico State Police reported that the identities would not be released until next of kin have been notified.  

The National Transportation Safety Board sent ten investigators to the site. McKinley County Emergency Management established a phone line for families of passengers to call for information.  The number is (505) 722-2002.

We extend our condolences to the families and friends of the victims at this time of great loss for them.  We wish swift and full recoveries for those who were injured.