A horrific head-on collision between a van and a truck Tuesday night, June 13, turned a stretch of Brazil’s BR-251 highway in Grão Mogol, northern Minas Gerais, into a tragic scene of loss and emergency response. Nine people were killed and 12 others injured in the violent crash that’s now under intense investigation by Brazilian authorities.

What Happened?

Initial findings from the Civil Police of Minas Gerais (PCMG) indicate the truck veered into the wrong lane, slamming directly into the van, which was transporting 19 seasonal workers heading home to the northeastern state of Ceará. According to forensic expert Hugo Leonardo, skid marks, drag patterns, and road grooves were key evidence in concluding the truck crossed into oncoming traffic.

A full technical report is expected within 30 days and could result in legal consequences for those found responsible.

Road Conditions Played a Role

At the time of the crash, the road was wet from rain and visibility was reduced by fog—factors that may have contributed to the truck driver losing control. Investigators are also looking into whether speeding was involved.

The Federal Highway Police (PRF) noted that this particular stretch of BR-251 is notorious for frequent and deadly accidents, especially in poor weather conditions. The investigation is also examining the maintenance records of both vehicles and the safety record of the highway itself.

Victims Include a 4-Year-Old

Emergency teams from SAMU, the Fire Department, PRF, and Civil Police worked through the night to respond to the crash. Authorities confirmed nine fatalities, including men and women between the ages of 4 and 52. Among those killed:

• A 4-year-old boy from Uberlândia (MG)

• A 29-year-old man from Crato (CE)

• A 33-year-old man from Trindade (PE)

• An unidentified elderly man

Officials used facial recognition and fingerprinting to identify the victims. One individual had no identification on them, and authorities are now comparing biometric data to national records to determine their identity.

Who Were the Passengers?

The van was carrying 19 migrant farm workers who had just finished a day picking fruits and vegetables in border towns between Goiás and Minas Gerais. They were headed home to northeastern Brazil to reunite with their families.

The Van Was Operating Illegally

Brazil’s National Land Transport Agency (ANTT) confirmed the van was not authorized for interstate passenger travel—a violation that highlights a broader problem. Many low-income workers turn to unauthorized transport options because they are cheaper, though often far less safe.

ANTT is cooperating with investigators and sharing relevant data about the vehicle and route.

Trucking Company Issues Statement

The truck belonged to OPR Logística, a company with 28 years of experience in cargo transportation. In a public statement, the company expressed condolences and said it is fully cooperating with investigators. No further details about the truck’s mechanical condition or the driver’s background have been released.

Investigation Underway

Police in Grão Mogol have opened a formal investigation. So far, recklessness on the part of the truck driver is a leading theory, but other scenarios have not been ruled out.

This tragedy has renewed urgent conversations in Brazil about the condition of the nation’s roads, enforcement of trucking safety standards, and the risks of illegal transportation networks that serve rural and low-income communities.