The accident occurred around 4:45 PM local time (5:45 PM Lithuanian time) between the municipalities of Susch and Zernez in the remote eastern canton of Graubünden.
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The bus crashed into a protective barrier, overturned, and flew off the slope, a local police spokesperson told the Swiss media.
The Dutch travel agencies association (ANVR) told AFP news agency that the bus belonged to the tour operator “Oad” and was carrying 48 passengers, all from the Netherlands.
“Several people died in the bus accident in Susch. Several others were injured,” the cantonal police reported on the social network “X,” without providing further details about the circumstances of the accident or the identities of the victims.
A police spokesperson told AFP that officers do not want to provide more detailed information about the victims until their relatives have been informed.
According to ANVR, the bus left the Netherlands on Monday and was transporting tourists on a one-day trip to Switzerland from Austria.
Swiss media footage shows rescuers gathered around the bus and helicopters landed nearby.
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“Oad” stated in a message that it is “deeply shocked and devastated by the tragic accident.”
“Our thoughts are with all those affected and their loved ones. Local authorities are currently fully engaged in rescue operations, assessing the situation and the number of victims,” the company added.
“We are doing everything we can to clarify everything as soon as possible and, where possible, support the victims and their families.”
Swiss President Guy Parmelin expressed condolences to the families of the victims, calling the accident a “tragic unfortunate incident.”
Zernez is the entry point for visitors to the Swiss National Park – a vast Alpine reserve covering more than 100 sq km in the mountainous Engadine valley.
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