GUATEMALA CITY (AP) - A tragic bus accident occurred on the outskirts of Guatemala City early Monday, resulting in the deaths of at least 40 individuals. The incident took place when a bus, which had just come from Progreso, northeast of the capital, was involved in a multi-vehicle crash that caused it to plunge off a bridge into a sewage-polluted stream below.

According to authorities, the bus fell approximately 115 feet (35 meters) before landing upside down and half-submerged in the water. This horrific accident also left another 15 passengers seriously injured, highlighting the severity of the crash and the perilous conditions surrounding it.

Edwin Villagran, a spokesman for the firefighting team, reported that rescue efforts were impeded by the challenging conditions at the site of the crash. Firefighters and emergency personnel worked tirelessly to recover the victims from the wreckage and assist the injured. Volunteer firefighting spokesman Óscar Sánchez confirmed the tragic news that children were among those who lost their lives in the accident, further underscoring the profound impact of this disaster on the community.

In response to this devastating event, President Bernardo Arévalo expressed his condolences to the victims' families and declared a national day of mourning. This announcement reflects not only the national grief but also the need for community solidarity in the wake of such a heartbreaking incident.

At the scene, the emotional toll was palpable as families of the victims gathered, anxiously awaiting news about their loved ones. The sight of emergency responders working amid the debris served as a stark reminder of the chaos and tragedy that unfolded in the early hours of Monday morning.

The scale of the tragedy has raised concerns about road safety and the necessity for improved regulations regarding public transportation in the region. As investigations into the crash continue, there will likely be renewed discussions about infrastructure and safety measures aimed at preventing such incidents in the future.

This tragic accident marks one of the deadliest bus crashes in recent history in Guatemala, drawing attention to the pressing issues of transport safety and emergency response capabilities. As families mourn the loss of their loved ones, the community comes together to support those affected by this heartbreaking event, highlighting the resilience and solidarity of the people in the face of tragedy.