The incident occurred on Thursday morning in the Nansha district of Guangdong province. A cargo ship reportedly struck a bridge, causing it to fracture and sending five vehicles, including a bus and an electric motorcycle, plummeting into the water or onto the vessel itself.

Initial reports suggested two fatalities, but authorities now confirm that three individuals who were previously missing are presumed dead, bringing the total death toll to five. One person, a crew member from the bus, sustained injuries in the accident.

Local authorities managed to rescue two individuals from the wreckage. The boat owner has been apprehended, and an investigation into the cause of the accident is ongoing.

This tragic incident raises serious concerns about maritime safety standards and bridge infrastructure in China. The investigation will be crucial in determining the cause of the collision and preventing similar tragedies in the future. (ILKHA)