Toronto, Canada - A tragic incident unfolded in rural Manitoba, Canada, as a bus transporting seniors to a casino collided with a semi-trailer truck at a highway intersection. The devastating crash claimed the lives of 15 individuals, while 10 others sustained injuries, according to the Manitoba Royal Canadian Mounted Police.

Rob Hill, the Commanding Officer of the Manitoba RCMP, confirmed that the bus, carrying a total of 25 passengers, was involved in the accident. Emergency responders and authorities swiftly mobilized their resources to the scene, providing assistance and medical care to those affected. The injured individuals were promptly transported to nearby hospitals.

Television broadcasters shared distressing images, depicting a severely damaged van or bus in a nearby ditch, alongside a wrecked transport truck with a damaged engine. The road was strewn with debris, including shattered glass, a large bumper, and what appeared to be a walking aid. Seven tarps, colored blue and yellow, were spread out on the scene.

RCMP Superintendent Rob Lasson reported that both the bus and truck drivers were alive but hospitalized. However, he did not specify whether they were among the 10 individuals listed as injured. The majority of the victims were elderly individuals, adding to the profound tragedy of the incident.

RCMP Superintendent Rob Lasson provided initial details about the tragic collision that unfolded in Carberry, Manitoba. The bus, traveling southbound, approached an intersection where a stop and yield sign were present. While attempting to cross the eastbound lanes, the bus was struck by an eastbound truck. Establishing the right of way becomes crucial in determining the circumstances surrounding the accident.

The devastating incident has left the public in shock, prompting numerous questions and concerns from individuals who fear their loved ones may have been involved. Superintendent Lasson acknowledged the profound impact of such a tragedy, emphasizing that the loss of life on this scale is always deeply distressing for law enforcement.

The crash occurred in Carberry, a city located 170 kilometers (105 miles) west of Winnipeg, Manitoba's capital. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau expressed his condolences via Twitter, extending heartfelt sympathies to those who lost loved ones and expressing thoughts of support for the injured.

The investigation into the collision is currently underway, aiming to provide clarity and answers during this difficult time.

To provide comfort and assistance to the relatives affected by the devastating collision, a family support center has been established at a Lutheran Church in Dauphin, Manitoba. Authorities have confirmed that the individuals on the bus were from Dauphin and the surrounding areas, intensifying the impact on the local community.

As a sign of mourning and respect, flags at the Manitoba legislature have been lowered to half-staff, symbolizing the collective grief felt throughout the region.

Regarding the destination of the ill-fated journey, a spokesperson for the Sand Hills Casino in Carberry revealed that the van was scheduled to arrive at the casino later in the day. The news further underscores the tragic turn of events and highlights the profound loss experienced by all those affected.

Kim Armstrong, the administrator of the senior center in Dauphin, shared that the bus departed from the center on Thursday morning.

In a close-knit community of approximately 8,600 residents, the senior center holds significant importance, often serving as a second home for its members. Armstrong emphasized the profound impact of losing multiple individuals from their community, expressing shock and extending prayers for the survivors.

Armstrong further explained that seniors and other community members frequently partake in bus trips to nearby events or casinos, highlighting the common practice of such outings among the residents.

The truck company involved in the collision expressed deep sorrow in a statement regarding the tragic incident, though they had limited information about the specifics of what transpired.

"We are devastated by the crash and our thoughts are with all those affected. We will fully cooperate with the investigation and provide any necessary assistance and support," stated William Doherty, CEO of Day & Ross.

Nirmesh Vadera, who was present at a nearby business along the highway at the time of the crash, recounted witnessing the aftermath. He described seeing a transport truck with a heavily damaged engine on the highway, while the bus was engulfed in flames on the grass beside the road. First responders were diligently working to rescue individuals from the burning vehicle, striving to keep them away from the fire.

"It was a blaze, and firefighters, medical personnel, and everyone present were doing their utmost to evacuate them from the fire," Vadera recalled.

The tragedy evoked memories of the 2018 bus crash in the neighboring province of Saskatchewan, which claimed the lives of 16 members of the Humboldt Broncos minor league hockey team. Superintendent Lasson mentioned that investigators from that previous crash are assisting in the current investigation.

"This is undeniably a day of immense sadness and tragedy, not just for Manitoba but for all of Canada," stated Rob Hill, the commanding officer of the RCMP, expressing the profound impact of the event.