A devastating bus accident in southern Ethiopia has claimed the lives of at least 28 people, with 19 others suffering severe injuries after the vehicle plunged into a river. The accident occurred on Wednesday in the Wolaita region, roughly 400 kilometers (250 miles) from the capital, Addis Ababa.

Local authorities stated that the bus, which was navigating a steep descent, veered off the road and sustained massive damage, including a torn-off roof. Search and rescue teams are continuing their efforts to recover additional victims, as the total number of passengers remains unclear.

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Shocking images shared on social media show the wrecked bus submerged in the river, highlighting the severity of the crash. The cause of the accident is still under investigation, with authorities working to determine the full scope of the tragedy.