A tragic accident claimed the life of a 13-year-old eighth grader when a school bus overturned on a South Carolina highway. The crash occurred Thursday afternoon on Interstate 77 in Chester County, officials reported, via ABC News. The bus, carrying students from Pine Ridge Middle School, was returning from a field trip near Charlotte, North Carolina.
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The collision happened around 1:47 p.m., according to the Chester County Sheriff's Office. The bus veered off the southbound lane, struck a guardrail, and flipped over after blowing a tire, said South Carolina Highway Patrol Sgt. Tyler Tidwell. "The bus was the only vehicle involved in the incident," Tidwell said. Emergency responders rushed to the scene, where the overturned bus rested partially on a guardrail.
Multiple Injuries Reported
The bus carried approximately 35 students and two adults, according to Lexington School District Two. Multiple students sustained injuries, though the sheriff's office has not released specific details. "There were multiple injuries in the crash, but we don't have a confirmed number or the nature of those injuries yet," a sheriff's office spokesperson said, via ABC News. Victims were transported to nearby hospitals for treatment.
Two other buses traveling with the group avoided the crash, the school district noted. Emergency medical services assessed all passengers across the three buses. In total, about 35 students and four adults were taken for further medical evaluation.
"We are grateful for the support of our EMS, first responder, and law enforcement partners," the school district said in a statement. "They worked tirelessly today to assist our Lexington Two students, families, and employees."
Community Mourns Loss
The South Carolina Highway Patrol is investigating the cause of the tire blowout and subsequent crash. Chester County Coroner Terry Tinker identified the deceased as an eighth grader from Pine Ridge Middle School. The school district expressed deep sorrow and pledged support for the community.
Gov. Henry McMaster addressed the tragedy, urging unity in grief. "Today's school bus accident in Chester County is a tragedy no family should ever have to endure," McMaster said. "Please join us in praying for the victim, their family, a speedy recovery for those injured, and the entire Lexington Two community. All of South Carolina is with you."
Multiple agencies, including local law enforcement and school personnel, remain on the scene to assist. The investigation continues as the community mourns the loss of a young student.
