At least 30 students were taken to nearby hospitals Friday morning after multiple school buses crashed on Chicago’s South Side, officials said. Paramedics treated children at the scene and transported several by ambulance; authorities described the injuries as non-life-threatening.
According to CBS Chicago, the Chicago Fire Department said 31 students and one adult were hurt when three buses crashed near Midway Plaisance and Dorchester Avenue. The station also reported the students were from Meadow Ridge Elementary in Orland Park and headed to a museum, and that those injured were listed in good condition.
Where it happened and who was aboard
WGN-TV placed the crash at East 55th Street and South Woodlawn Avenue and reported the buses were en route to the Museum of Science and Industry. Officials on scene described at least two buses involved, with some accounts indicating more vehicles as emergency crews sorted out the scene.
Injuries and emergency response
According to CBS Chicago, fire crews and paramedics treated students on site and transported several to nearby hospitals; video from the scene showed children on stretchers while medics worked. Officials emphasized that initial reports characterized the injuries as minor or non-life-threatening, and there were no immediate reports of fatalities.
Investigation underway
Officials told WGN-TV the cause of the crash remained unclear as investigators processed the scene and took statements from witnesses. Police and fire investigators were collecting information while school and transportation officials worked to account for students and staff.
School-bus safety in perspective
As outlined by congressional testimony, school buses have a strong safety record compared with other modes of travel, though officials continue to study ways—such as stop-arm enforcement and seat belts—to reduce the small number of serious incidents that do occur. The topic typically draws attention from both safety advocates and legislators whenever children are hurt in transportation accidents.
Investigations are ongoing, and officials said they will release more details as they become available.
