How Did 5 Students Die When Their School Vehicle Overturned Into a Pond in Kandal?
Five students from BELTEI International School were killed and two others were injured after the privately hired vehicle carrying them overturned into a pond in Kandal province, Cambodia, on the morning of 10 November 2026.
What happened in Kandal?
The vehicle was carrying 26 students to BELTEI's Prek Tameak commune branch in Khsach Kandal district when the crash happened. According to initial reports cited by Khmer Times, the driver swerved to avoid a motorcycle, causing the vehicle to overturn and plunge into a pond.
The students were travelling in a vehicle hired by their parents, rather than one owned or operated by the school. Ly Bunchhay, Deputy Director-General of BELTEI Group, confirmed that 26 students were on board at the time of the accident.
How many students were killed and injured?
- 5 students killed — they died after becoming trapped in the vehicle
- 2 students injured — taken to hospital for emergency treatment
- 26 students on board in total
- The remaining students were safe, according to the report
The bodies of the five children who died were handed over to their families for a traditional funeral.
How did the rescue unfold?
Residents and authorities rushed to the scene to rescue the students from the pond after the vehicle overturned. Despite their efforts, five children who had become trapped in the vehicle could not be saved.
The two injured students were taken to hospital for emergency treatment. The report does not give further details about their condition.
Who operated the vehicle?
The vehicle was privately hired by the students' parents to transport their children to school. BELTEI Group confirmed the school did not own or operate it, and the students were travelling to the school's Prek Tameak commune branch in Khsach Kandal district.
What happens next?
Authorities arrested the driver following the accident. No further details about any charges or the next steps in the case were given in the initial report, and the circumstances of the crash remain subject to the authorities' inquiries.
Frequently asked questions
How many students died in the Kandal school vehicle crash?
Five students from BELTEI International School were killed when their privately hired transport vehicle overturned into a pond in Kandal province on 10 November 2026.
How many students were injured?
Two students were injured and taken to hospital for emergency treatment. A total of 26 students were travelling in the vehicle.
What caused the vehicle to overturn?
According to initial reports, the driver swerved to avoid a motorcycle, causing the vehicle to overturn and plunge into a pond.
Who owned the vehicle?
The vehicle was privately hired by the students' parents. BELTEI Group confirmed the school did not own or operate it.
Was the driver arrested?
Yes, authorities arrested the driver following the accident.
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