PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (AP) — A devastating accident occurred early Thursday morning when a passenger bus plunged off a bridge into a river in Cambodia, resulting in the tragic deaths of at least 16 passengers. Additionally, around two dozen others sustained injuries in the incident, according to local police reports.

The bus was en route from Siem Reap, a city renowned for the iconic Angkor Wat temple complex, to the capital city of Phnom Penh. The crash occurred in the central province of Kampong Thom, as detailed by the area’s deputy police chief, Siv Sovanna, who communicated the details to The Associated Press via phone.

As the search and rescue operation concluded Thursday night, the death toll was tragically updated, rising from an initial count of 13 fatalities to 16. Survivors of the crash indicated that approximately 40 passengers had boarded the bus, all of whom were Cambodian nationals, as confirmed by the police.

A preliminary investigation suggests that the driver of the bus may have been drowsy at the time of the crash. The journey from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh usually takes about 5.5 hours and is generally completed at night, which raises concerns about driver fatigue. However, it has not been disclosed whether the driver was among the casualties.

This latest incident highlights the ongoing issue of road safety in Cambodia, where traffic accidents have led to substantial loss of life in recent years. Reports indicate that in 2024, traffic crashes in Cambodia resulted in the deaths of 1,509 individuals. The situation did not improve in 2025, as the Ministry of Public Works and Transport reported that 1,062 people lost their lives in traffic-related incidents during the first nine months of the year.

The frequency of such tragedies emphasizes the pressing need for improved safety measures and regulations on Cambodian roads. As the country continues to develop its infrastructure and expand its tourism industry, particularly around significant sites like Angkor Wat, ensuring the safety of travelers and residents alike has become an increasingly important concern.

The recent bus crash serves as a grim reminder of the dangers that exist within the transportation system in Cambodia. With families mourning the loss of loved ones and many others affected by injuries, the hope is that this incident will trigger discussions around improving safety standards to prevent future occurrences.