On 21/7, Dong Nai Police detained driver Tran Thanh Hai, 41, to investigate a serious accident that killed seven and injured five in Hung Thinh commune.

The passenger bus caught fire after the accident. Photo: Thai Ha.

Initial investigation determined the accident's cause was Tran Thanh Hai driving while drowsy and distracted.

As the bus approached Hung Thinh commune, Hai noticed a truck traveling in the same direction ahead. He swerved right to avoid a collision, causing the bus to veer into the right-hand lane and strike the first barrier system.

The bus then hit a second protective barrier, which pierced the vehicle's undercarriage near the front passenger side step. The engine shut down after the impact, disabling the air system. Since the bus had only one main air-operated door, it could not be opened normally.

At the same time, smoke and fire appeared near the front step, rapidly engulfing the entire bus. The driver and assistant, Le Quoc Dat, forced open the main door and helped passengers escape. However, the quick spread of flames and smoke prevented access to the rear seats, trapping the remaining passengers. The accident resulted in seven trapped victims dying and five others injured.

After the accident, Hai surrendered to Hung Thinh commune police in Dong Nai city, admitting his drowsiness and distraction while driving caused the crash.

Police examining the accident scene. Photo: Phuoc Tuan.

According to registration data, the vehicle was manufactured in Vietnam in 2026. It is a 24-seat sleeper bus, issued a contract permit valid from 1/2026 until 1/2033. The vehicle was first registered for inspection on 28/1/2026, with the inspection valid until 27/1/2028.

Phuoc Tuan