Five people, including two nursing students, died in a road crash involving a Fins Medical University van and a Skies Bus Company coach along the Fort Portal-Kasese highway.
The fatal accident occurred at around 10:50 pm. on Saturday, according to Vincent Twesige, Rwenzori West police spokesperson. He said the crash happened when the two vehicles side-swiped while navigating a narrow stretch of the road, causing the Toyota Hiace van (UAQ 436Q) to lose control and overturn several times before landing in the middle of the road.
The Isuzu coach (UBQ 993G) was carrying passengers at the time of the accident. The bus driver suffered minor injuries, but all passengers escaped unhurt. The van belonged to Fins Medical University, based in Fort Portal City, and was returning from a medical outreach camp at Busita Playground in Bunyangabu district.
Patrick Ruhweza, the university secretary, confirmed the deceased as Gerald Muhumuza, a professional nurse, James Kato, support staff, Meddy Tusime, the van driver, Pauson Amanya and Trust Koshaba, both nursing students.
Three other individuals Matiya Businge, Everest Kugonza, and John Calvin Omasege sustained serious injuries and are currently admitted at Great Lakes International Hospital and Fort Portal regional referral hospital.