Vaz urges greater caution on roads after highway crash leaves five dead
Published:Wednesday | November 26, 2025 | 9:40 PM
Transport Minister Daryl Vaz is urging road users to exercise heightened caution, stressing that split-second mechanical failures or lapses can have life-altering consequences.
His warning follows Wednesday afternoon's bus crash along the Vineyard leg of the East-West Highway in which five people were killed and several others injured.
Vaz expressed sadness at the incident and noted that the investigation is ongoing.
“This is a heart-breaking tragedy, and my thoughts and prayers are with all those who are grieving or anxiously awaiting news of their loved ones. We are committed to supporting the ongoing investigation to fully understand the circumstances surrounding this crash,” he said.
Vaz stated that the severity of the crash underscores the urgent need for heightened vigilance and responsible behaviour on the nation’s roads, particularly as the island enters the busy Christmas season.
“Mechanical failures can occur without warning, and a moment of distraction or speeding can turn fatal in an instant. I am asking all Jamaicans—drivers, pedestrians, operators—to recommit to safety. Service your vehicles regularly, as you are responsible for every life you transport. One life lost is one too many,” Vaz said.
It's understood that a tyre blew out on the public passenger bus, leading to the crash along Highway 2000.
In the meantime, the transport minister also appealed to citizens to desist from recording, sharing, or circulating graphic images or videos of crash victims, out of respect for the families of the deceased, and to avoid compromising ongoing investigations.
He said his ministry will continue to monitor updates from the Jamaica Constabulary Force regarding the circumstances surrounding the crash.
As of November 26, 2025, a total of 337 Jamaicans have been killed in 297 fatal collisions across the island.
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