At least 17 killed after Indonesian bus falls into ravine

YOGYAKARTA, INDONESIA: At least 17 people were killed after a bus carrying 47 people dropped into a ravine in Indonesia's province of Central Java, local media reported.

The bus, belonging to Tri Sakti busline, was traveling from Semarang and heading towards Yogyakarta on Monday night, and in his attempt to pass the vehicle in front of him, the bus driver lost control, hit a tree, and dropped around 15 meters (49 feet) into a ravine in Pingit village, Temanggung regency, Central Java, Yogyakarta's Tribun News reported.

Sixteen of the fatal victims died on the scene, and one died while being transported to a local hospital, the latest reported death toll indicated. However, dozens have been reported seriously injured in several local hospitals.

Officials continue to investigate the incident, but it is believed that the bus driver was excessively speeding and lost control after driving over a sandy part of the road.

(BNO NEWS )