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Pope León XIV Mourns Peru Bus Crash as Driver Detained in Deadly Ocoña Wreck

A positive alcohol screen for the detained van driver has sharpened both the criminal inquiry and calls for safer roads.

Overview

  • The Nov. 12 collision sent an interprovincial bus into a ravine after a head‑on crash with a van on the Panamericana Sur near Ocoña, leaving 37 dead and 27 injured.
  • Judicial authorities ordered the detention of the van driver, identified as Henry Branddy Rey Apaclla Ñaupari, who remains under police guard while hospitalized in Camaná.
  • Regional police said the driver tested positive in a qualitative alcohol test, and the Fiscalía is investigating him for aggravated culpable homicide and culpable injuries.
  • From the Apostolic Palace after the Angelus, Pope León XIV offered prayers for victims and families and urged an “examination of conscience” over irresponsible behavior on the roads.
  • His remarks coincided with the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims, reinforcing calls for greater responsibility and road‑safety action in Peru.