Deadly Bus Crash on Java Toll Road Claims 16 Lives, 18 Injured

Tragic Accident on Krapyak Toll Road

A devastating bus accident occurred just after midnight on Monday, December 22, 2025, on the Krapyak Toll Road in Semarang City, Central Java, Indonesia. The incident involved a passenger bus that lost control and overturned, leading to the deaths of at least 16 people and injuring 18 others.

The bus, operated by PO Cahaya Trans and bearing license plate number B 7201 IV, was carrying 34 passengers at the time of the crash. It was en route from Jatiasih, Jakarta, to the historic city of Yogyakarta.

Details of the Crash and Casualties

According to officials, the bus reportedly lost traction while speeding, subsequently colliding with road separators and a concrete barrier before rolling onto its side. Witnesses reported the bus was traveling at high speed before the driver lost control.

Of the 16 fatalities, six passengers died at the scene, while another 10 succumbed to their injuries either en route to hospitals or during treatment. The 18 injured passengers were transported to nearby medical facilities, including Dr. Kariadi Central General Hospital, Columbia Asia Hospital, and Dr. Adhyatma Regional General Hospital. Among the injured, five were in critical condition and 13 sustained serious injuries.

Rescue Operations and Ongoing Investigation

Search and rescue (SAR) officers, including personnel from the Semarang SAR Office, police, Jasa Marga (the toll road operator), and the Indonesian Red Cross, swiftly responded to the scene. Budiono, Head of the Semarang SAR Office, stated that the evacuation was challenging due to victims being trapped and access being obstructed by broken glass. The joint SAR team had to force entry into the overturned bus to reach and evacuate the victims.

The evacuation process concluded around 4 a.m. local time. Central Java Police Chief Ribut Hari Wibowo confirmed that the driver, identified as a substitute, sustained serious injuries but was able to communicate. Police have launched an investigation into the exact cause of the accident and plan to test the driver for prohibited substances, including drugs. Officials have urged road travelers to exercise caution, take breaks when fatigued, and maintain safe distances between vehicles to prevent future accidents.