Three people have been confirmed dead and one other injured after a rescue truck belonging to the Federal Fire Service collided with a vehicle in Abuja on Friday.

It was gathered that the truck left a firefighting operation at Avenue Plaza, Banex, at high speed with the siren blaring to refill, after it had exhausted its water supply.

However, when the truck arrived at the ECOWAS junction in Wuse 2, it collided with a Toyota Camry approaching from a connecting street.

The Federal Fire Service Headquarters confirmed the incident in a statement on Sunday, mourning the victims.

“The fire truck was en route to combat a major blaze when it collided with an oncoming vehicle carrying four passengers.

“While this is not the time to assign blame, the controller general, Federal Fire Service, Eng Jaji Abdulganiyu O. MIfire.E, MNSE, extends heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased and offers prayers for their comfort during this difficult time,” it added.

It said Mr Jaji had visited the bereaved families, and that the injured victim was receiving treatment in the hospital.

The fire service said an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident was underway and that appropriate disciplinary measures would be taken should any officer be found culpable.

“Mindful that the core mandate of the fire service is to save lives, not take them—an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident is already underway. The CGF assures the public that appropriate disciplinary measures will be taken should any officer be found culpable.

“The CGF also emphasises the importance of yielding to fire trucks responding to emergencies. It is vital for the public to understand that firefighters are not only trained in firefighting but also in rescue operations,” it stated.