Highway Collision In Luzerne County, Pennsylvania, a concerning incident unfolded as a school bus carrying 49 children collided with a flatbed tow truck on Route 115 around 8 am. The collision raised alarm due to the potential risks involved.
Medical Episode Leads to Collision The incident stemmed from a medical issue experienced by the tow truck driver, identified as Edward Steinmann, aged 28. This medical episode caused the tow truck to veer into the opposite lane, resulting in a head-on collision with the school bus. Both drivers sustained ‘moderate’ injuries in the collision. Edward Steinmann was transported to Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center, while the school bus driver, Suzanne Ent, aged 53, was also taken to the hospital for a medical assessment.
Minor Injuries for Children Fortunately, the children aboard the school bus, numbering 49, sustained minor injuries during the incident. Although their injuries were minor, they were taken to the medical center as a precautionary measure. The children involved in the collision ranged in age from five to 14, representing various grades from kindergarten to eighth grade.
Parents Informed and Children Reunited Parents of the affected children were promptly informed about the accident and were able to collect their children from the hospital. The incident remains under investigation as authorities work to determine the precise cause of the collision.
Appreciation and Collaboration The Pennsylvania State Police expressed their gratitude that the incident did not result in more severe injuries and extended well wishes for a speedy recovery to all involved. They also acknowledged the individuals who stopped to provide assistance. During the emergency response, the portion of Route 115 from Laurel Run Road to East Mountain Boulevard was temporarily closed.
Statement from School CEO Jim Smith, the CEO of Bear Creek Community Charter School, where the children were en route for their second day of school, conveyed his appreciation for the responding agencies and the support received from parents, bystanders, and school staff. He eagerly awaited the results of the ongoing investigation and recognized the high level of cooperation among all entities involved in managing the incident.