At least 38 people have died in a horrific bus and truck collision in the Brazilian state of Minas Gerais, with the brother of a prominent social media influencer among the victims. The crash occurred early on Saturday on the BR-116 highway near Teófilo Otoni, when a bus carrying 45 passengers from São Paulo blew a tyre, causing the driver to lose control and hit a lorry. The bus then burst into flames.
Thirteen survivors were taken to hospitals, while three occupants of a car that also collided with the bus escaped unharmed. Firefighters used a crane to access parts of the wreckage, which showed twisted metal, ripped seats, and personal belongings scattered across the road.
Minas Gerais Governor Romeu Zema ordered a full mobilisation of security forces and made aircraft available for rescue efforts. He expressed condolences, saying, 'We are working to ensure that the families of the victims are welcomed so that they can face this tragedy in the most humane way possible on the eve of Christmas.'
The influencer's brother, whose identity has not been officially released, was confirmed dead by local media. The influencer, known for lifestyle content, has not yet publicly commented.
Brazil's road death rate is 15.7 per 100,000 people, significantly higher than Argentina's 8.8. The government aims to halve road fatalities by 2030, a plan expected to save 86,000 lives.
