Update: 18 vehicles involved as fatal crash at Karu bridge leaves six dead, 25 injured

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has confirmed that six people lost their lives and 25 others sustained injuries in a devastating multiple-vehicle crash beneath the Karu Bridge in Abuja on Wednesday evening.

FRSC Public Education Officer, Olusegun Ogungbemide, stated that the accident involved 18 vehicles, including two articulated trucks, two buses, one jeep, and 11 cars, many of which were severely damaged or completely engulfed in flames.

Emergency responders, including the FRSC, Red Cross, Fire Service, and military personnel, arrived swiftly to assist the victims. The crash, reportedly caused by brake failure, triggered a chain reaction of collisions.

According to Ogungbemide, the accident occurred at approximately 6:58 p.m., with FRSC receiving the alert at 7:03 p.m. In total, more than 35 people were involved in the incident.

“Tragically, six people lost their lives, with four victims burned beyond recognition, while 25 others sustained varying degrees of injuries,” he said.

The injured were rushed to nearby hospitals for medical treatment, and the bodies of the deceased were taken to the mortuary.

The FRSC Sector Commander for the FCT, Mr. Chorrie Muta’a, along with senior officials, coordinated the rescue efforts on-site. FRSC Corps Marshal, Malam Shehu Mohammed, also visited the scene to assess the extent of the damage and express condolences to the victims’ families.

Ogungbemide urged motorists to ensure their vehicles are roadworthy before any journey, emphasizing the importance of routine maintenance and strict adherence to traffic safety regulations.

“The FRSC remains committed to reducing road crashes through aggressive public sensitization, enforcement of traffic laws, and collaboration with relevant agencies to enhance road safety awareness,” he added.