NANJING - The death toll from an expressway accident that occurred on Thursday in East China's Jiangsu province has risen to eight, and the driver suspected to be responsible has been detained, police said Friday.

The accident happened on an expressway section in Donghai county, Lianyungang, at around 4 pm Thursday when a bus crossed the median and collided head-on with a car.

Seven people were confirmed dead on Thursday and another person died in hospital on Friday. A total of 37 people were injured, according to the city government.

The driver of the bus, surnamed Shao, is suspected of traffic offences and has been detained.

Police are also investigating the bus company.