A tragic incident unfolded in Turin on March 26, 2025, when a tourist bus plummeted into the Po River near Piazza Vittorio Veneto. The accident occurred around 5:30 PM, capturing the attention of numerous onlookers and raising immediate concerns about the safety of the passengers.
The bus, operated by Di Carlo Tours, was maneuvering in reverse when it veered off course, crashing through the iron railing at the Murazzi before plunging into the river. Eyewitnesses described the scene as chaotic, with many unable to comprehend the unfolding disaster. One witness recounted, "The bus was high, light gray, moving slowly, and we thought it was making a maneuver. Suddenly, we heard a loud thud as it hit the water."
Tragically, the driver, 64-year-old Nicola Di Carlo, was the only person aboard the vehicle. He was initially rescued alive but lost consciousness shortly after being pulled from the bus. Despite the efforts of emergency responders who attempted resuscitation for approximately 20 minutes, he was pronounced dead at the hospital.
Three pedestrians, all women, were also injured when the bus struck them before its descent into the river. They were taken to the CTO hospital with non-serious injuries, primarily contusions, and are expected to recover. The rapid response from local authorities and emergency services was crucial in managing the situation. Firefighters, equipped with divers and helicopters, arrived swiftly at the scene, while canoers from nearby clubs were among the first responders to assist.
Local police closed access to the Vittorio Emanuele I bridge and surrounding areas to facilitate rescue operations and ensure public safety. The police commander, Roberto Mangiardi, assessed the situation and noted the unusual nature of the bus's maneuver prior to the accident. He stated, "The bus was seen moving backward at a 45-degree angle, which is not typical for such vehicles. It struck the stone railing and fell into the river."
As investigations continue, authorities are exploring various possible causes of the accident, including a sudden medical emergency, human error, or mechanical failure. The bus's trajectory, captured by surveillance cameras, suggests it was navigating a tight turn before losing control. Eyewitnesses reported seeing the bus sway precariously before it ultimately fell into the water.
One witness described the harrowing moment, saying, "I heard a loud noise and turned to see the bus in the water. It was terrifying!" Another bystander recounted how canoers quickly sprang into action, using a hammer to break the bus's window and retrieve the driver. "They were incredibly fast and brave," she added.
The incident has shocked the local community, especially considering the bus's location in a bustling area frequented by tourists and residents alike. The Piazza Vittorio Veneto is renowned for its scenic views and vibrant atmosphere, making the tragedy even more poignant.
In light of this incident, local officials are urging increased safety measures for tourist vehicles operating in busy urban environments. The mayor of Turin, Stefano Lo Russo, visited the site to offer condolences and support to the emergency teams involved in the recovery efforts. He emphasized the need for thorough investigations to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
As the investigation unfolds, the community mourns the loss of Nicola Di Carlo, who was not only a driver but also a local businessman known for his dedication to providing memorable experiences for tourists. The bus company, Di Carlo Tours, has expressed its sorrow over the incident and is cooperating fully with authorities.
This tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the importance of safety in public transportation, especially in areas with high pedestrian traffic. As the city reflects on this incident, many are left wondering how such a catastrophe could happen and what steps can be taken to ensure the safety of both drivers and pedestrians in the future.
With ongoing investigations, updates will continue to emerge regarding the circumstances surrounding the bus's fall into the river and the safety protocols that may need to be reassessed. The focus now shifts to honoring the memory of the driver and ensuring that the lessons learned from this tragedy lead to improved safety measures for all.
