BUCHLOE, Germany — Two people were killed and eight others injured after a tourist bus carrying about 35 Filipino passengers to Munich’s Oktoberfest overturned near Buchloe in southern Germany. The crash happened early in the morning as the coach was travelling toward the popular festival, according to German authorities and reporting by the Associated Press.
Tourist bus leaves highway and overturns
The coach reportedly left the road near Buchloe in the Ostallgäu region at around 6 a.m. local time before entering a wooded area and overturning. Emergency services were called to the scene and began treating injured passengers.
Images from the crash site showed the bus lying on its side as rescue crews worked around the vehicle.
Two people died in the crash
At least two passengers died as a result of the accident. Eight others were reported injured, while the two bus drivers were not hurt.
The victims were part of a Filipino tourist group travelling toward Munich during Oktoberfest, one of Germany’s best-known annual festivals.
About 35 Filipino tourists were aboard
Officials later clarified that approximately 35 people were travelling on the bus and that the passengers were Filipino nationals. Early reports had contained conflicting information about the bus route and passenger numbers, but German officials subsequently provided updated details.
The correction illustrates why casualty and passenger figures can change during the early stages of a major accident investigation.
Crash cause remains under investigation
Authorities had not established the cause of the crash in the initial reports. Investigators are expected to examine the road, vehicle condition, weather, speed, driver actions and other factors that could have contributed to the bus leaving the highway.
Police and transport investigators may also review vehicle records and statements from surviving passengers.
Rescue operation after the bus overturned
Emergency crews responded quickly after the crash. Overturned buses can present difficult rescue conditions because doors may become inaccessible and passengers may be trapped inside the vehicle.
Rescue teams must also stabilise the vehicle and ensure that damaged electrical or fuel systems do not create additional hazards.
Oktoberfest travel increases traffic
Munich’s Oktoberfest attracts visitors from Germany and around the world. During the festival period, roads around Bavaria can experience increased tourist traffic, with coaches and private vehicles transporting visitors to and from Munich.
The accident occurred while the passengers were travelling to the festival, but authorities had not indicated that the event itself played a role in the crash.
Families await more information
Fatal accidents involving international tourists can require coordination between local authorities, consular officials and the victims’ home country. Philippine representatives may assist with identification, communication with relatives and other consular matters.
Survivors may also need medical treatment and assistance arranging alternative travel after the crash.
How investigators examine a bus crash
Investigators generally reconstruct the accident using vehicle data, road evidence, photographs, CCTV where available and witness statements. They may examine tyre condition, braking systems and other mechanical components.
Investigators can also determine whether the driver was operating within legal limits and whether the vehicle had passed required safety inspections.
Road safety questions
Large passenger coaches can carry dozens of people, so a single serious crash can produce multiple casualties. Seat belts, vehicle maintenance, driver training and safe driving practices can all reduce the risk of serious injury.
Authorities will determine whether any specific safety issue contributed to this crash only after completing their investigation.
What happens next
Police are expected to continue examining the crash site and interviewing witnesses and survivors. The final number of injured passengers and the circumstances of the deaths may become clearer as hospitals and authorities complete their assessments.
Any criminal or regulatory action would depend on evidence gathered during the investigation.
Read more international accident and disaster coverage in our International News section.
Source: Associated Press reporting citing German authorities, September 27, 2026.