Chester County, SC – A school bus crash on Thursday, April 18, 2025, killed one student and left at least five others in critical condition after a tire blew out and the bus flipped over on Interstate 77 in Chester County.

What Happened

At 1:45 p.m., a school bus carrying 35 students and three adults from Pine Ridge Middle School in West Columbia was returning from a field trip to the NASCAR Hall of Fame in Charlotte, NC. The bus was southbound near Exit 55 when a tire blew out, veered off the road, hit the guardrail, and overturned. The bus landed on its side with the door down.

Emergency crews, including EMS personnel and medical helicopters, arrived promptly to assist. Several students were trapped inside the bus and had to be rescued. A 13-year-old male student died at the scene. His name has not been released.

The Cause

The South Carolina Highway Patrol stated that the cause of the crash was a tire blowout, which caused the driver to lose control of the bus. The bus hit the guardrail and then overturned. The crash is under investigation by the Chester County Sheriff’s Office and the Pennsylvania State Police.

Community Comments

South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster released a statement saying, “Today’s school bus accident in Chester County is a tragedy no family should ever have to go through. 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.”

The Lexington Two School District also released a statement praising the quick response of emergency teams. It stated that counselors will be available to support students, staff, and families affected by the incident.

Community members and parents gathered later in the evening to hold a small vigil for the student who died. Local churches and support groups are stepping in to help families cop with the challenges.

Final Thoughts:

As the investigation continues, the Chester County community mourns the loss of a young life and prays for the recovery of those injured. The crash underscores the crucial importance of regular vehicle inspections and emergency preparedness during school trips. Authorities are urging anyone with additional information to assist with the ongoing investigation.