The Alagoas Civil Police (PC/AL) are currently investigating a tragic accident that occurred on February 3rd in São José da Tapera, where a bus transporting pilgrims was involved in a crash. Authorities have extracted GPS data from the vehicle to assist with the investigation, which is still in its early stages. The police are currently awaiting the recovery of the bus driver, who remains hospitalized and has not yet been able to provide a statement regarding the incident.

According to delegate Diego Nunes of the 38th Police District of São José da Tapera, investigators have already interviewed representatives of the bus company, those responsible for organizing the pilgrimage, and witnesses who observed the accident. These interviews have helped police establish an initial understanding of the potential causes of the accident, which has put a spotlight on issues surrounding transportation safety for such large gatherings of people, particularly in rural areas.

The incident has raised significant concerns as it involved participants returning from the Romaria das Candeias, one of the largest pilgrimages in Brazil’s Northeast region. The tragic loss of life and injuries sustained in the crash underscore the need for greater oversight and regulation of transportation services in such contexts, especially as local authorities look to prevent similar mishaps in the future and ensure the safety of pilgrims and travelers.