A routine field trip turned into a nightmare Thursday afternoon when a school bus carrying Pine Ridge Middle School students overturned on Interstate 77. The terrifying accident, caused by a sudden tire blowout around 3 p.m., left 35 children and two adult chaperones scrambling for safety as the bus skidded onto its side.
Eyewitnesses described a scene of chaos as passing motorists rushed to help while waiting for emergency crews to arrive. The response was massive – five medical helicopters circled overhead as firefighters worked to free trapped students using specialized equipment. Some children had to be carefully extracted from beneath seats and debris.
Local hospitals reported treating injuries ranging from minor scrapes to serious fractures and head trauma. By evening, six students remained in serious but stable condition. The adult chaperones also received medical attention, though their injuries weren’t life-threatening.
At a hastily organized reunification center, emotional parents embraced their children after hours of uncertainty. “I saw the crash on the news before the school even called,” one shaken mother said through tears. “You send your child off for what should be a fun day, and then…”
School district officials confirmed the bus was operated by a contracted driver who is fully cooperating with investigators. Preliminary examinations suggest the tire failure was sudden and unexpected. Superintendent Dr. Linda Holmes expressed gratitude that no lives were lost while promising full support for affected families.
As state and federal investigators begin their work examining maintenance records and tire specifications, the community has rallied around the injured students. The school has canceled Friday classes and arranged for counseling services, beginning the long process of healing from this traumatic event.
