On May 15, 2025, a tragic accident occurred on Federal Highway 135 near kilometer 31 on the Cuacnopalan-Oaxaca highway in Puebla, Mexico. The incident involved a tanker truck, a bus, and a transport van. The sequence of events began when the tanker truck attempted to overtake another vehicle. During this maneuver, the truck crossed into oncoming traffic, leading to a collision with both the bus and the van. Following the collision, the tanker truck rolled down an embankment and exploded, resulting in the instant death of its two occupants.
The accident's severity was compounded by the presence of multiple vehicles and the subsequent explosion, which necessitated a comprehensive emergency response and investigation. The focus of the ongoing investigation is to determine whether the truck driver made an illegal pass or if there were any mechanical issues that contributed to the tragic event.
Casualties and Investigation
Casualties
The tragic accident on Federal Highway 135 resulted in a total of 21 confirmed fatalities:
- 18 individuals died at the scene
- 3 more succumbed to their injuries in hospitals
Among the deceased were:
- Eight school teachers from Tehuacán, who tragically lost their lives on Teachers' Day
- 16 passengers, including the driver, from Corporativo Turístico Smart Transports
Injuries
In addition to the fatalities, up to 20 individuals sustained injuries of varying severity. Emergency response teams, including the National Guard and local police, swiftly arrived at the scene to provide assistance.
Investigation
The highway was closed for several hours to facilitate rescue operations and conduct a thorough investigation.
Authorities are focusing their investigation on:
- Determining whether the truck driver attempted an illegal pass
- Investigating any mechanical issues that may have contributed to the crash
The outcome of this investigation will be crucial in understanding the full circumstances of the incident and in pursuing any necessary legal actions.
How Goldfaden Benson Can Assist Victims of Bus and Multi-Vehicle Accidents
Victims and families affected by bus accidents may have the right to pursue compensation for medical expenses, funeral costs, and emotional distress. These incidents often result in significant physical, emotional, and financial challenges for those involved. Legal action can help alleviate some of these burdens by ensuring that victims and their families receive appropriate compensation.
Goldfaden Benson has extensive experience in handling complex accident cases, working diligently to secure the justice and compensation that victims deserve. Our legal team is skilled in navigating the intricacies of such cases, including cross-border legal challenges, to hold negligent parties accountable.
If you or a loved one has been impacted by a similar tragedy, we encourage you to contact Goldfaden Benson today for expert legal support and guidance. Our team is committed to providing compassionate and effective representation to help you through this difficult time.
