Bus Driver Collapses and Crashes Near Pal Yam Junction, Condition Critical

A bus driver in his 50s collapsed and lost consciousness while driving on Road 651 near the Pal Yam junction, likely due to a medical issue. As a result, the bus collided with a private vehicle. Emergency medical teams found the driver unconscious in the bus cabin and immediately began resuscitation efforts, including chest compressions, ventilation, and eight electric shocks using a defibrillator. He was transported to Hillel Yaffe Medical Center in critical condition while resuscitation continued.

Paramedics Jonathan Yankelvich, Yosef Friedman, and Elimelech Michalovitch reported that upon arrival, they found several frightened passengers and the driver unresponsive with no pulse or breathing. They initiated advanced life support procedures on the scene. Meanwhile, the driver of the private car sustained minor injuries and was also taken to Hillel Yaffe Hospital. No injuries were reported among the bus passengers, and none required hospital evacuation.

The incident occurred on Thursday evening, and the medical teams conducted thorough checks on all passengers involved. The cause of the driver's collapse is presumed to be medical, but further details have not been disclosed. The driver remains in critical condition at the hospital.