BREAK!NG NEWS! Serious bus accident kiIIs more than 20 students, they… See more

On the afternoon of **Tuesday, August 5th**, a heartbreaking tragedy struck the city of **Ipameri**, in the state of **Goiás, Brazil**. A **school van rollover** claimed the life of **9-year-old Celina Victoria Frões Muniz Goes**, leaving the local community in mourning. The fatal accident occurred on a rural dirt road in the **Mata do Calixto** region, approximately **35 kilometers** from the nearest paved road.

According to **Police Chief Diogo Ferreira**, the van belonged to an **independent rural school transportation provider**, not directly operated by the city. Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the circumstances that led to the crash.

In an official statement, the **Ipameri City Hall** expressed its deepest condolences to Celina’s family and friends, declaring **three days of official mourning** in her memory. The **Nossa Senhora de Fátima Municipal School**, where Celina was a student, suspended classes as a sign of respect. Teachers, school staff, and the **municipal education secretary** attended the wake and burial, held in **Caldas Novas**, offering support to the grieving family.

**Accident Details**
According to **Major Rodrigo André** of the Fire Department, **five children** and the **driver** were inside the van when it overturned. Celina’s **brother** was among the passengers and sustained a **bruise on his foot** but is expected to recover. The driver suffered a **minor graze** on his back and chose to remain at the scene, declining medical treatment.

Authorities are examining whether **road conditions, vehicle maintenance, or driver error** played a role in the rollover. Rural school transport in remote areas often faces challenges, including **unpaved roads** and **limited safety infrastructure**, which can increase risks for young passengers.

Celina’s tragic passing has deeply affected the **Ipameri community**, sparking renewed conversations about **student transportation safety** in rural Brazil. Local leaders and parents are calling for **stricter oversight**, improved road maintenance, and better safety standards to prevent future tragedies.

As the investigation continues, the memory of **Celina Victoria** remains in the hearts of her classmates, teachers, and family — a young life lost far too soon.