High-Speed Shock: School Van Carrying 18 Students Slams Into Power Pole in Surin

SURIN, THAILAND — A morning commute turned into a harrowing ordeal for dozens of local families after a school van carrying 18 students lost control and smashed into a power pole.

The incident occurred early Monday morning during peak school-run traffic. According to preliminary reports from local law enforcement and first responders, the vehicle was transporting students to nearby schools in the province when the driver reportedly suffered a mechanical issue.

Witnesses at the scene stated that the van appeared to lose control on a straight section of the road. The driver told emergency responders that the brakes failed, preventing him from slowing down as he approached traffic.

In an attempt to avoid a major collision with two oncoming pickup trucks, the vehicle swerved sharply off the road and slammed directly into a concrete utility pole. The impact crushed the front bumper of the van and brought down power lines nearby, briefly disrupting power in the immediate surrounding area.

"We heard a loud screech followed by a deafening crash," said a nearby shopkeeper who rushed to assist. "Children were screaming inside, and smoke was starting to come out of the engine block."

Rescue workers from local foundations arrived swiftly, securing the area due to downing high-voltage lines before freeing the passengers trapped inside.

All 18 students onboard, ranging in age from elementary to high school, were evaluated at the site. While most suffered only minor scrapes, bruises, and shock, two pupils were admitted to the local hospital for closer monitoring and treatment of moderate injuries. The driver was also treated for injuries and is currently assisting police with their ongoing investigation.

Surin traffic police have launched an investigation into the crash. Investigators will perform a thorough technical inspection of the van to verify the driver’s claim of brake failure and check whether the vehicle met proper safety maintenance standards and passenger capacity limits.

Local transport officials reaffirmed their commitment to enforcing stricter vehicle inspections for private student transport services following the accident.