By: Thomas I. Likness
Eagle News Service

(Eagle News) — A collision between a transport truck and a bus carrying a group of seniors in western Canada has claimed the lives of 15 people and left another 10 injured.

The accident happened on the Trans-Canada Highway just before the lunch hour Thursday near the town of Carberry in southwestern Manitoba.

The bus had been crossing the highway when it collided with the semitrailer truck, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police said in a news release.

“Immediately it became apparent that this was a mass casualty situation,” RCMP Superintendent Rob Lasson told a media briefing.

He says the drivers of both vehicles survived the accident and are in hospital.

Lasson did not indicate which vehicle had the right of way.

“Answers will take some time but I can assure you that the RCMP will get the answers,” he said.

Major crimes heading investigation

Police say major crime services has taken over the investigation.

“Even at the outset of an investigation such as this, we need to be alive to the fact that there could be wrongdoing. And if so, there could be a criminal element to this investigation,” said Lasson.

Police say the bus had been carrying 25 people, the majority of them seniors.

Apparently the seniors were on a day trip to a casino in Carberry.

Two air ambulances were on the scene to rush the injured to hospitals.

Prime Minister Trudeau offered his condolences upon hearing the news.

“I’m keeping the injured in my thoughts. I cannot imagine the pain those affected are feeling – but Canadians are here for you,” Trudeau said on Twitter.
(Eagle News Service)