Two Canadians Killed, 13 Injured in D.R. Bus Accident Involving Sunwing Passengers
by Marsha Mowers
A tour bus accident in the Dominican Republic killed two Canadian tourists and injured 13 others, authorities said Monday.
Calgary-based WestJet, which operates Sunwing, told CTV News the bus was operated by NexusTours. NexusTours was formerly part of the Sunwing Travel Group, which was acquired by the WestJet Group in May 2023. It is now a third-party supplier to the WestJet Group.
NexusTours operates as a separate entity, functioning as the primary ground handler for WestJet Vacations and providing transfers and excursions in Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central America. In this case, it is reported that the bus was carrying Sunwing Vacations guests from the Punta Cana airport to hotels in La Romana.
An internal memo by WestJet CEO Alexis von Hoensbroech, obtained by CTV News, states there are confirmed guest fatalities and some severe injuries. Name of the victims have not yet been released.
The Canadian embassy in the Dominican Republic posted the following on X: “We are aware of a tourist bus accident involving Canadians in the Dominican Republic and are in contact with local authorities. We recognize the stress this situation may cause impacted individuals and loved ones and are providing consular assistance.”
In a statement sent to CTV News, Nexus said: “We deeply regret the tragic incident involving the bus transferring Sunwing guests in Punta Cana on March 1, 2026. Our hearts go out to the families and loved ones affected.
“At this moment, we are cooperating fully with local authorities and WestJet/Sunwing to provide support to all impacted guests. Due to privacy and sensitivity, we cannot disclose personal details or specifics about the number of fatalities and injuries. The Canadian Embassy has been notified and is handling next of kin communications.”
