COLUMBIA, S.C. (WACH) — A bus carrying students from Pine Ridge Middle School in Lexington County crashed Thursday at 1:45 pm after a tire blew out.
The crash occurred on the way back from a field trip to Charlotte at mile marker 55 on I-77 near Richburg in Chester County.
The bus was carrying three adults and around 35 students; 18 were injured, and some were taken to local hospitals for evaluation.
According to the South Carolina Highway Patrol, one person has died.
Two other buses traveling back on Interstate 77 were not involved.
EMS arrived at the scene along with emergency responders, law enforcement agencies, and district school personnel.
A reunification site was set up nearby at Exit 48 for families.
As of Thursday afternoon, all lanes are blocked on I-77 southbound.
Today’s school bus accident in Chester County is a tragedy no family should ever have to endure. Peggy and I are heartbroken. 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. Governor Henry McMaster said.
“Our hearts are broken by the tragic bus accident in Chester County this afternoon. Our entire state is mourning alongside the Pine Ridge Middle School families, friends, classmates, and educators. Please join me in praying for the Lexington Two community.” SC Superintendent Ellen Weaver said.
The Chester County Sheriff’s Office posted the following on Facebook:
“The Chester County Sheriff’s Office would like to express our condolences to the family and friends of the victim in the tragic vehicle accident that occurred on Interstate I-77 today. Additionally, our thoughts and prayers are with all of those affected, and we wish a quick recovery to everyone involved. We are also extremely grateful for the incredible support we received from across our county and neighboring counties. The efforts of countless individuals and agencies do not go unnoticed.”
The Fairfield County Sheriff’s Office posted the following on Facebook:
“We are devastated to hear of the loss of life and injuries resulting from this heartbreaking incident. As parents, first responders, and members of this close-knit law enforcement community, our thoughts and prayers are with the students, families, school staff, and emergency personnel affected by this tragedy. We stand in solidarity with the Pine Ridge Middle School and the Lexington Two School District, and all those impacted, during this incredibly difficult time. May comfort and healing surround everyone in the days ahead.”
WACH FOX will have more details as they come in.
