Several dead in Dutch coach crash in Switzerland

Several individuals lost their lives and numerous others sustained injuries when a coach carrying Dutch tourists collided and overturned in eastern Switzerland, according to police reports on Thursday. The incident occurred around 4:45 pm near the towns of Susch and Zernez in Graubunden canton, with the coach striking a safety barrier before careening down an embankment. The Dutch Federation of Travel Agencies confirmed that the coach, operated by tour company Oad, was transporting 48 passengers from the Netherlands.

The local police spokesperson stated that several lives were claimed in the coach crash, though they refrained from providing further details on the circumstances or the identities of the victims. Swiss media footage depicted a chaotic scene as rescue workers rushed to the location, with helicopters stationed nearby. Oad expressed deep shock and devastation over the tragic accident, offering their condolences to all those affected and their families.

Swiss President Guy Parmelin conveyed his condolences to the victims' families, describing the incident as a tragic accident. Zernez serves as the primary entrance for visitors to the Swiss national park, a sprawling Alpine reserve spanning over 100 square kilometers within the mountainous Engadine valley.