Amid the mass observance of Our Lady of Guadalupe Day in central Mexico, a terrible traffic crash on the Mexico-Puebla highway left several casualties and many injured as hundreds of pilgrims traveled homeward. Reports indicate that at least two people died and about a dozen others were injured in the early moments following the collision, with medical teams rushing to assist the wounded. The incident underscores the risks faced by large crowds moving along major routes during religious celebrations in the region, and it has prompted swift actions from local authorities and emergency responders. [Attribution: Puebla Government]
Preliminary information suggests that a convoy of pilgrims from Puebla, a central state, had traveled to the Basilica of Guadalupe in Ciudad de México for the observance and was returning to their home communities when the crash occurred. Initial statements from officials indicated that two lives were lost and twelve individuals required medical attention, with three of the injured being transferred to different hospitals for treatment. Authorities pointed to the possibility that alcohol impairment may have played a role in the incident, though the full cause remained under investigation at the time of the initial briefing. [Attribution: Puebla Government]
In the wake of the crash, the driver of the truck involved was detained by the National Guard as investigators began to piece together the sequence of events. City safety and rescue teams, including members of the ambulance and medical emergency squads, responded to the scene after receiving reports of multiple people moving along the highway center lanes toward Puebla. The rapid deployment of responders helped secure the area and provide first aid to those in need. [Attribution: National Guard]
The National Guard later disclosed that the accident occurred near the 20th kilometer marker on the Mexico-Puebla corridor, and traffic in the Puebla-bound direction was intermittently halted to allow for emergency operations and the safe extraction of the wounded. As crews worked, witnesses described a chaotic scene with frightened travelers and responders coordinating to prevent further danger on the roadway. [Attribution: National Guard]
Officials from Puebla State expressed deep concern over the tragedy. Governor Javier Aquino offered condolences to the families and friends of the pilgrims and voiced his expectation that those affected would receive the support they needed during this difficult time. He also noted that the government was in close contact with representatives from the group of pilgrims who, according to officials, originated from Acatzingo in central Mexico, and that assistance would be provided as the situation evolved. [Attribution: Puebla Government]
In the days following the crash, local health authorities and civil defense units coordinated ongoing medical care for the injured while coordinating with the families of the deceased. The event has prompted a review of traffic management and pedestrian safety measures near major religious sites, particularly during peak travel periods tied to festive observances. Community leaders and officials emphasized the importance of orderly travel, sober driving, and proper rest for pilgrims undertaking long journeys to and from large religious gatherings. [Attribution: Local Authorities]