Vaz saddened by toll road crash
KINGSTON, Jamaica — Transport Minister Daryl Vaz says he is saddened following the tragic motor vehicle crash on the Vineyard Town leg, of the East to West Toll Road on Wednesday, which resulted in multiple fatalities and injuries.
“This is a heart-breaking tragedy, and my thoughts and prayers are with all those who are grieving or anxiously awaiting news of their loved ones. We are committed to supporting the ongoing investigation to fully understand the circumstances surrounding this crash,” Vaz said in a statement on Wednesday.
Five people have died, and another 15 received medical treatment following a crash. Observer Online understands that the crash which occurred around 3:00 pm involved a Toyota Hiace bus operating as a public passenger vehicle in the eastbound lane, which overturned into a ditch a few hundred metres before the Vineyard Toll Booth.
READ: UPDATE: Five dead, 15 injured in toll road crash
Vaz said the severity of the crash underscores the urgent need for heightened vigilance and responsible behaviour on the nation’s roads, particularly as the island enters the busy Christmas season.
He urged road users to exercise heightened caution, stressing that split-second mechanical failures or lapses can have life-altering consequences.
“Mechanical failures can occur without warning, and a moment of distraction or speeding can turn fatal in an instant. I am asking all Jamaicans—drivers, pedestrians, operators—to recommit to safety. Service your vehicles regularly, as you are responsible for every life you transport. One life lost is one too many,” Vaz said.
The ministry is also appealing to citizens to desist from recording, sharing, or circulating graphic images or videos of crash victims, out of respect for the families of the deceased, and to avoid compromising ongoing investigations.
The ministry said it will continue to monitor updates from the Jamaica Constabulary Force regarding the circumstances surrounding the crash.
As of November 26, 2025, a total of 337 Jamaicans have been killed in 297 fatal collisions across the island.
