Pontiff sends condolences for victims of school bus fire in Bangkok

Pope Francis has sent a telegram expressing his condolences to the families of 20 schoolchildren and three teachers who died on 1 October in a bus fire on the outskirts of Bangkok, Thailand.

In the telegram, signed by Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin, Pope Francis said he was “deeply saddened to be informed” of the deadly accident, and extended “his prayers to all those who are suffering from the effects of this tragedy, especially the grieving families”. He also commended “the souls of the deceased to the loving mercy of the Almighty”. The Holy Father concluded by invoking upon all, “the divine blessings of strength, peace and consolation”.

The accident occurred when the bus, which was on its way back to Bangkok after a school trip to the northern province of Uthai Thani, crashed and caught fire.