A serious incident unfolded late on Friday, 23rd October, when a school bus overturned on Highway 138 in Georgia, resulting in a substantial number of injuries. The accident occurred just before midnight, prompting quick responses from local authorities and emergency services.
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According to reports from the Georgia State Patrol (GSP), the yellow 2025 Freightliner bus was transporting the Salem High School football team back from an away game against Greater Atlanta Christian School at the time. It is believed the bus driver, identified as 74-year-old Walter Hackett of Conyers, lost control while attempting to make a right turn onto State Route 138 after exiting Interstate 20.
The collision involved a passenger vehicle, a black Kia Soul driven by 35-year-old Calvin Harling from Covington. Upon impact, the Kia was forced to rotate almost 180 degrees before coming to a halt in the northbound lane. The bus continued onto the shoulder of the highway, where it began to overturn, ultimately landing on its side facing south.
In total, 27 individuals were on board the bus, comprising 17 student athletes, seven trainers, two coaches and the driver. Following the accident, emergency medical services were deployed to the scene. The GSP confirmed that the students were accounted for, with several having been promptly attended to by parents while others were transported to hospitals by ambulance. One student required airlifting via Life Flight.
Cindy Ball, the Chief Community Relations Officer for Rockdale County Public Schools, released a statement confirming that there were no fatalities resulting from the crash. She expressed relief over the incident, stating, “Our students and staff are receiving the care they need,” adding that school personnel were present at nearby hospitals to support the affected families.
Emergency services were swift to close all lanes of Highway 138 following the accident, facilitating the work of police and rescue teams. Footage captured by local news outlets shows the bus lying on its side in a grassy area adjacent to the highway, surrounded by multiple emergency response vehicles.
In light of the severity of the incident, an investigation has been initiated to uncover the circumstances leading to the crash. The GSP noted that collaboration between their troopers, school officials, and the National EMS would establish a comprehensive report detailing the injuries sustained and the locations to which each injured student was transported.
The Specialized Collision Reconstruction Team has been called to assist in the investigation, alongside officers from the Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Division, ensuring that all aspects of this incident are thoroughly examined.
Currently, both drivers involved in the collision have been hospitalised for treatment, although their conditions have not been disclosed. Local authorities and the school district have committed to providing ongoing updates as more information comes to light.
As the community grapples with the implications of this accident, the focus remains on the recovery of the injured individuals and supporting the families affected. Rockdale County Public Schools has assured parents and guardians that they will keep them informed of any developments related to the incident.