A serious traffic accident turned Tuesday night (13) into a scene of loss on BR-251, near Grão Mogol, in the northern region of the state. A head-on collision between a van and a truck resulted in nine deaths and left 12 others injured, prompting a large emergency response and a national outpouring of concern.

Authorities are now working to determine the precise causes of the crash and whether it could have been prevented.

Preliminary findings from the Civil Police of Minas Gerais indicate that the truck crossed into the opposite lane, leading directly to the collision with the van, which was transporting workers returning to Ceará.

According to forensic specialist Hugo Leonardo, physical evidence at the scene—including tire marks, drag marks, and grooves in the asphalt—was central to this initial conclusion. “It was a determining factor,” he said, noting that the roadway evidence strongly supports the early assessment.

The investigation remains ongoing. Officials have emphasized that conclusions at this stage are preliminary and that further technical analysis will be conducted to establish responsibility and contributing factors.

As families await answers, the focus remains on accountability, road safety, and preventing similar tragedies in the future.