One Dead, Several Injured in Fatal Crash Involving Baby Coach and Fuel Truck in Alwi

A tragic road accident along the Pakwach–Nebbi highway has left one person dead and several others injured after a Baby Coach bus collided with a fuel tanker in Alwiy Pateng, Payila Alwi on the night of Tuesday, May 20.

The fatal collision occurred at approximately 9:35 p.m. and involved a Kampala-bound Baby Coach bus, registration number UBB 145S, and a Mercedes-Benz fuel tanker, registration number KBW 679H/ZG 0855.According to eyewitnesses, the bus, which was en route to Paidha from Kampala, rammed into the fuel truck under unclear circumstances. 

The impact of the collision caused extensive damage to both vehicles, and emergency responders had to work through the night to rescue trapped passengers.One person was confirmed dead at the scene, while multiple others sustained varying degrees of injuries and were rushed to nearby health facilities for treatment. 

The exact number of injured persons has not yet been officially confirmed by authorities.Local residents and first responders described the scene as horrifying, with mangled metal, shattered glass, and injured passengers crying for help. The Uganda Police and medical personnel were swiftly deployed to the site to coordinate rescue efforts and manage traffic.West Nile Regional Police spokesperson confirmed that investigations are underway to establish the cause of the accident. 

Preliminary reports suggest that poor visibility and possible mechanical failure may have played a role, though more details are expected to emerge after a full inquiry.The Pakwach–Nebbi highway has seen an increasing number of accidents in recent months, prompting renewed calls for stricter enforcement of road safety regulations and better maintenance of public transport vehicles.

The identity of the deceased has been withheld pending notification of next of kin.

Authorities have urged all motorists to exercise extreme caution while driving at night and to ensure their vehicles are in good mechanical condition before embarking on long-distance journeys.