Several killed in coach crash in eastern Switzerland

An accident involving a coach carrying Dutch tourists in eastern Switzerland resulted in several fatalities and injuries, according to police reports on Thursday. The incident occurred around 4:45 pm between the communes of Susch and Zernez in the Graubunden canton. The coach hit a safety barrier before rolling over and crashing down an embankment, as a local police spokesman informed Swiss media.

The Dutch Federation of Travel Agencies (ANVR) confirmed that the coach belonged to the tour company Oad and was transporting 48 passengers, all of them from the Netherlands. The exact circumstances of the accident and the identities of the victims have not been disclosed by the cantonal police. Swiss media footage showed numerous rescue workers rushing to the scene, with helicopters stationed nearby.

Oad expressed deep shock and devastation following the tragic accident, offering condolences to everyone involved and their loved ones. Local authorities are currently engaged in relief efforts and determining the situation and number of casualties. Swiss President Guy Parmelin extended his condolences, calling the crash a tragic accident.

Zernez serves as the entry point for visitors to the Swiss national park, a vast Alpine reserve spanning over 100 square kilometers across the mountainous Engadine valley.