Traditional tourist streetcar in Rio crashes; 5 killed

At least five people died and other 30 were injured when the traditional streetcar – a major tourist attraction at the Santa Teresa neighborhood – tipped over in Rio de Janeiro. Local authorities informed the vehicle was completed destroyed as it crashed as it descended in the steep streets of Santa Teresa.

Four people died on the spot and a fifth victim perished on the way to the hospital. Authorities haven’t established yet if any foreign tourist is among the victims. Known as “bondinho” the traditional streetcar is considered a cities’ postcard as it connects downtown Rio to the old neighborhood of Santa Teresa crossing over through the Lapa arcs, an Roman aqueduct used to supply water to the city during colonial times.

Santa Teresa is situated on downtown Rio and is know for its bohemian life, gastronomic attractions, nightlife and espetacular views of the Guanabara Bay. Last year, a French tourist was killed when he fell from the streetcar 15 meters above ground level.