A tragic accident on the GM-2 road leaves families and authorities reeling as investigations begin
Category: Travel
A bus carrying British tourists plunged down a ravine in La Gomera, Canary Islands, on April 10, 2026, killing one passenger and injuring 27 others. The incident occurred around 1:15 PM local time as the group was traveling to the San Sebastián de La Gomera dock to catch a ferry to Tenerife.
According to local emergency services, the bus had 28 individuals on board, including 27 British tourists and the driver. The deceased has been identified as a 77-year-old British national. Among the injured, four are reported to be in serious condition, with two men aged 73 and 42 suffering multiple serious injuries that necessitated helicopter transfers to hospitals in neighboring Tenerife.
The bus crash took place on the GM-2 road, a mountainous route known for its sharp turns. Reports indicate that the bus veered off the road at a bend and fell approximately 10 meters into a ravine. Eyewitness accounts suggest that the driver reported brake failure before the bus collided with a Toyota pick-up truck and tumbled off the road.
Emergency response teams were deployed swiftly, with three helicopters and five ambulances responding to the scene. The majority of the injured were taken to Hospital Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe on La Gomera, where they are being treated for various injuries. A Civil Guard spokesperson confirmed that the bus was operated by Gomera Tours, a company that provides excursions and transfers across the islands. The firm has stated that all its vehicles are up to date with inspections.
The Canary Islands, particularly La Gomera, are popular holiday destinations for British tourists, with approximately 70,000 visitors arriving annually. Tragically, this is not the first such incident on the GM-2 road; it has seen two fatal accidents involving buses in less than a year. Local authorities are conducting an investigation into the cause of the crash, examining the road for signs of skidding and other potential factors.
Fernando Clavijo, President of the Canary Islands, expressed his condolences, stating, "My support to the victims and their families." Meanwhile, the British embassy in Madrid has offered assistance to those affected, emphasizing that they are in contact with local authorities to provide support.
As the investigation continues, the local community and families of the victims are left grappling with the aftermath of this tragic event. The bus accident has raised concerns about road safety in the region, prompting calls for a review of the routes frequently traveled by tourists.
Authorities are expected to hold a press conference soon to provide updates on the situation and the outcomes of the investigation into the incident.