A school bus carrying 28 students overturned in Bullitt County, Kentucky, on Monday afternoon, resulting in injuries to 14 individuals. The incident occurred around 4:45 p.m. local time on Wilson Creek Road, involving a bus from Bullitt County Public Schools (BCPS) that was transporting elementary students from Lebanon Junction Elementary School.
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According to reports from local news outlets, the bus driver and several students suffered minor injuries as a result of the crash. BCPS Superintendent Jesse Bacon confirmed that emergency medical services transported the bus driver and eight of the students to local hospitals for further evaluation. Meanwhile, another five students were taken to medical facilities by their parents.
In a statement provided to WDRB, Superintendent Bacon detailed the swift response from emergency services, noting that first responders were able to assess the situation and clear the remaining students at the scene. Those students were subsequently reunited with their families. “We continue to work closely with emergency personnel and our families to ensure everyone’s safety and well-being,” Bacon stated.
Emergency crews from various local services, including the Bullitt County Emergency Management Agency and Lebanon Junction Fire Department, were deployed to the scene to provide assistance. Staff from BCPS were also on hand to support the injured students, demonstrating a coordinated effort to address the crisis.
Norton Children’s Hospital reported that they treated seven patients for minor injuries related to the incident. Accounts from witnesses indicate that the bus overturned while the driver was attempting to avoid another vehicle. Fourth grader Cooper Brown, who was seen with a bandage on his eyebrow, recounted the events, stating, “Somebody was trying to pass somebody … and then the bus driver was kind of trying to pull over and then the wheel kind of broke, so the bus crashed.”
Authorities from the Bullitt County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) are currently investigating the circumstances leading up to the crash. The investigation aims to provide clarity on what transpired in the moments before the bus overturned.
Superintendent Bacon expressed gratitude for the rapid response from local emergency services, highlighting their efforts in managing the situation effectively. “The safety of our students and staff remains our highest priority,” he affirmed, acknowledging the community’s patience and support during this challenging time.
In light of the incident, BCPS has committed to maintaining open lines of communication with families and the community, striving to offer continual support and updates as more information becomes available. The priority remains on ensuring the health and safety of all students involved.
As the investigation continues, BCPS is expected to collaborate closely with the authorities to determine the exact causes of the crash. Reports are also anticipated to shed light on any necessary improvements to safeguards for children travelling on school buses in the district.