Same bus crash: Collision sparks fire, traps passengers

Same. Several people are feared dead following a head-on collision between a large passenger bus operated by Chanel One and a smaller commuter bus (coaster), which resulted in both vehicles bursting into flames in Same District, Kilimanjaro Region.

Same District Commissioner Kasilda Mgeni confirmed the incident, describing it as a tragic accident that occurred on the evening of Saturday, June 28, 2025.

“This is a very serious accident. A large passenger bus and a smaller commuter vehicle collided head-on and caught fire. People were trapped inside and could not escape,” said Ms Mgeni.

Kilimanjaro Regional Fire and Rescue Commander Jeremiah Mkomagi said the crash involved a Chanel One bus travelling from Moshi to Tanga and a coaster plying between Same and Moshi.

“We are en route to the scene. Preliminary reports indicate that the Chanel One bus was heading to Tanga from Moshi, while the coaster was travelling in the opposite direction from Same to Moshi. The two collided and caught fire,” said Commander Mkomagi.

He confirmed that 16 people had been rescued from the scene as of the time of reporting, with emergency operations still underway.

The exact number of casualties was yet to be established, with rescue teams working late into the night.

Authorities said more details would be shared once the initial emergency response is complete and investigations into the cause of the crash begin.

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