Eight-year-old dies, others injured in Anambra crash

An eight-year-old girl has tragically lost her life, while several others have suffered injuries in a devastating road crash on the Onitsha–Enugu Expressway in Anambra State. The accident took place near the Anabel Event Centre in Awka on Sunday. The Anambra State Fire Service confirmed the incident in a statement issued on Tuesday by their Media and Publicity Unit, led by Chukwudi Chiketa.

According to the statement, the commercial bus, colloquially known as "TRACAS," was carrying 14 passengers from Nnewi to Enugu when it crashed and overturned. The emergency call was received at around 3:30 PM, prompting the rapid mobilization of fire service officers to the scene. They secured the area, assisted in the rescue and evacuation of the victims.

The Anambra State Fire Service stated that the bus sustained damage to certain parts, but there was no fire outbreak at the scene. Of the several passengers injured, their conditions ranged from minor to severe, and they were taken to a nearby hospital for medical care. Tragically, the eight-year-old girl succumbed to her injuries in the crash.

The fire service team took necessary safety measures to avert any potential secondary disaster and remained on the scene until control was restored and the area was deemed safe. They withdrew from the scene at approximately 5:45 PM the same day. The fire service emphasized the importance of caution, adherence to speed limits, and vigilance while driving, particularly when transporting passengers.