Number of injured in Rome bus crash now reported as 42.

The driver of the Rome city bus that crashed into a tree on Via Cassia was allegedly looking at his telephone moments before the crash, passengers told Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera.

The number of people injured in the crash is now being reported as 42, including the driver, with nine passengers said to be in a serious condition. However none of the injured are believed to be in a life-threatening situation.

Police are reportedly awaiting authorisation from the prosecutor's office to examine the driver's telephone records.

The incident occurred near the junction with Via Oriolo, at around 09.00 on 16 October, and involved a 12-year-old bus operating on the 301 route.

Photo Corriere della Sera