A school bus carrying more than 40 elementary school students in northwest Austin, Texas, rolled over on a rural road Wednesday afternoon, injuring at least 12 people — including some with life-threatening injuries — on the first day of classes.
The bus, from the Leander Independent School District, was travelling in Travis County when it veered off a two-lane road “for an unknown reason” and rolled over onto its side, according to Department of Public Safety (DPS) Sergeant Billy Ray.
Multiple Injuries, Cause Under Investigation
Austin-Travis County Emergency Medical Services Assistant Chief Kevin Parker said one person sustained life-threatening injuries, while two others suffered potentially life-threatening injuries. The remaining victims’ injuries were described as non-life-threatening.
Authorities confirmed that 42 children and the driver were on board at the time of the crash. All 12 injured — including the driver — were taken to nearby hospitals. Officials have not confirmed whether the most seriously injured individual is a student or the driver.
The cause of the accident remains under investigation. DPS officials are working to determine why the bus left the roadway before tipping over.
Students Were Wearing Seat Belts
Leander ISD Superintendent Bruce Gearing said the bus was transporting elementary school students home and had not yet dropped off any passengers when the crash occurred.
The vehicle was a 2024 model equipped with state-mandated seat belts, and children were required to wear them, Gearing noted.
“We want each of those students and their families to know that our prayers are with them, our thoughts are with them, and we will do everything that we can in our power to support them,”
— Superintendent Bruce Gearing
Rural Road Risks
The crash took place on a rural stretch of road in Travis County, a region where narrow lanes and limited shoulders can make large vehicle navigation challenging. Authorities have not reported any hazardous weather at the time of the crash.
School officials are working with law enforcement to support the injured students and their families while arranging alternate transportation for other pupils in the district.
