COLÓN, Panama – A bus transporting 17 athletes to a sporting competition caught fire on the Pan-American Highway on Saturday morning, forcing a rapid evacuation moments before the vehicle became fully engulfed in flames. The incident occurred at kilometer 31 near the Giral community in the Buena Vista district of Colón Province.
According to eyewitness accounts from other drivers, the bus, identified as a coaster-type vehicle, ignited quickly and was completely consumed by the fire. The athletes, who were wrestlers en route to a competition in Colón city, were able to exit the vehicle safely after the driver detected a burning smell and pulled over onto the highway shoulder.
“A burning smell alerted the driver, who pulled over on the highway, and a spark was seen in the engine, so all occupants got off and the fire started,” an official report stated [Translated from Spanish].
Rapid Escape Prevents Injuries as Fire Erupts
The fire erupted beneath a vehicular and pedestrian bridge in the Giral community. Authorities confirmed that all passengers evacuated swiftly, avoiding being trapped by the ball of fire that rapidly spread inside and outside the coaster bus.
Initial investigations suggest an electrical or mechanical fault in the engine compartment sparked the blaze. The incident has prompted an official investigation to determine the exact cause of the bus fire, which represents the third such vehicle fire incident reported between September and October.
Firefighters and emergency responders arrived at the scene to extinguish the blaze, though the vehicle was declared a total loss. The Pan-American Highway experienced temporary traffic disruptions as emergency crews worked to secure the area and remove the charred remains of the bus.
“The drivers watched as the bus quickly caught fire, completely consuming it,” witnesses reported [Translated from Spanish].
Vehicle Fire Investigation Underway in Colón
Panamanian transportation authorities have launched a formal investigation into the cause of the fire. The probe will examine the vehicle’s maintenance records, mechanical condition, and compliance with safety standards.
The frequency of vehicle fires in recent months has raised concerns among transportation officials and the public. With this being the third such incident in approximately two months, authorities are expected to review safety protocols for public and private transportation vehicles operating throughout Panama.
The successful evacuation of all passengers without injury highlights the importance of driver alertness and prompt emergency response. The driver’s quick action in detecting the unusual smell and immediately pulling over likely prevented potential casualties.
Further details about the investigation and any resulting safety measures are expected to be released by Panamanian transportation authorities in the coming days as they work to prevent similar incidents.