We are deeply saddened to report that earlier today a bus carrying a group of Columbia and Barnard students was involved in a serious accident while traveling in Honduras on a volunteer mission organized by the humanitarian, non-profit group Global Brigades. Three fatalities have been reported, and the families have been notified. We are in the process of determining the full extent of the injuries sustained by the bus passengers and contacting the families of our students. Columbia medical and support personnel are traveling to Honduras overnight to provide additional on-site assistance. Our thoughts are with all those who have been affected by this tragic loss. We will provide further information to the University community as it becomes available.