In a distressing series of events, San Antonio saw two separate accidents involving children in transit. The first, a severe car accident on Interstate 35, resulted in six children, ranging from ages 2 to 11, being hospitalized with "very life-threatening injuries," as reported by KENS 5. This single-car crash occurred around 7:15 p.m. near I-35 and Frost Bank Drive, wherein a tire blowout propelled the vehicle into a collision with a tree. Officer Nick Soliz, a San Antonio Police Department spokesperson, indicated that the ejected children were likely not restrained with seat belts at the time of the incident.
With the Northbound I-35 closed from Walters to Frost Bank Center Drive for investigation purposes, Officer Soliz also noted that two adults and an additional child, who was secured, were sent to the hospital. While early information provided might evolve during the inquiry, the driver is currently facing several charges with the endangerment of a child, a serious reminder of the grave responsibility when ferrying the young. Further details of the victims have been retained in confidence by authorities.
On a related note, an East Central ISD school bus engaged in an accident with a big rig in east Bexar County. As KSAT reports, approximately 10 children suffered minor injuries, mainly scrapes and bumps, in the crash that took place early Friday morning on U.S. Highway 87 East. An official district communication later confirmed that thirteen children and one adult were transported for care, all with minor injuries. Brandon Oliver, East Central ISD's director of Marketing and Communications, stated that parents could take home the kids involved if they wished.
Questioning about the incident has led authorities to declare that no charges are expected as a result of the bus crash, while the section of Highway 87 involved has since been cleared and opened for traffic. More than 30 students were aboard when the school bus collided, and while some were taken to the hospital or went home with parents, eight proceeded to school, capturing the resilience often seen in the young after such distressing incidents.
