A devastating crash involving a charter bus in central Ohio on Tuesday, November 29 has left three students and three adult chaperones dead and over a dozen others injured. The bus was transporting high school students and chaperones from the Tuscarawas Valley Local Schools district to an event in Columbus when it collided with a semi truck.
Details on the Tragic Accident
The horrific crash occurred around 8:52 AM on Interstate 70 westbound near the Route 310 interchange in Licking County. According to the Ohio Highway Patrol, the bus was struck by a semi truck from behind and subsequently caught fire along with two other vehicles.
In total, three students and three chaperones sadly perished at the scene. The deceased were later identified as students John Mosely, Jeffery Worrell, and Katelyn Owens, as well as chaperones Dave Kennat, Kristy Gaynor, and Shannon Wigfield.
Eighteen other bus passengers sustained injuries and were transported to local hospitals. The remaining students were safely evacuated from the devastating scene.
A Devastating Loss for the Community
The Tuscarawas Valley Local Schools community outside Zoarville, Ohio suffered an immense loss in the tragic accident. Counseling services are being made available to grieving students and families as they process this profound tragedy.
Friends describe the three students who passed away as talented, energetic youth with bright futures ahead. The community is rallying to provide support and comfort to all affected.
Investigation Into the Crash
State troopers, local authorities and the National Transportation Safety Board immediately launched an investigation to determine the cause of the accident. Early indications suggest the semi truck collided into the bus from behind, though full details are still forthcoming.
I-70 remained closed for hours after the morning collision. Once the investigation concludes, officials will share recommendations to help prevent similar tragedies.
Bus Operator's Response
The charter bus was operated by Pioneer Trails, a family-owned Ohio transportation company. Pioneer Trails stated they are fully cooperating with investigators and extended sympathies to victims and families.
Records indicate the company had a satisfactory safety rating and only one prior accident with injury in the past two years. The bus driver survived but has not yet commented publicly.
Remembering Those Lost
While investigating accident causes is critical, the Tuscarawas Valley community remains focused on honoring the memory of the irreplaceable students and guides lost.
John, Jeffery, Katelyn, Dave, Kristy and Shannon shared a love for band, learning and adventure that inspires others to embrace life fully and uplift those around them. Their legacies persist.
Finding Hope Amidst Tragedy
Coping with this devastating tragedy will take time and profound grief. But the community aims to find purpose by coming together, supporting victims' families, pressing for solutions, and carrying forward the spirit of those lost.
Processing tragedy as one unified community provides the greatest chance for healing. Tuscarawas Valley will recover by compassionately supporting one another through their darkest times.
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