Ten people, including women and children, were killed and 13 others injured on Wednesday when a Hi-Ace van lost control on a turn, plunged into a ravine and caught fire on the Murree Expressway near Khajut.

All those on board belonged to the same family from the Sutri Watt area of Multan, who were travelling to Murree on a leisure trip. Ten of the passengers were children.

The van fell on the side where doors could not be opened, trapping occupants inside as the vehicle caught fire immediately after the fall, significantly adding to the death toll.

Rescue teams, motorway police and district administration officials reached the scene shortly after the incident. The bodies and the injured were shifted to PIMS Hospital Islamabad, where medical treatment is under way.

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz expressed deep grief over the loss of lives, directed authorities to ensure the best possible medical care for the injured, and sought an immediate report from relevant officials. She also extended condolences to the bereaved family.

A forensic team has reached the site and is collecting evidence to determine the cause of the accident. Investigations are ongoing.