At least three dead and 15 hurt when semi rear-ends bus carrying students in Ohio

Officials in Ohio say that three people are dead and more than a dozen more injured after a semi crashed into a bus carrying students in Etna Township, Ohio.

The crash occurred around 8:15 a.m. on Tuesday, November 14 in Licking County, Ohio.

A charter bus transporting students from Tuscarawas Valley High School was reportedly rear-ended by a semi truck on westbound I-70 near SR 310.

This destruction is heart-breaking on I-70 at 310 in Licking County. The Tusky Valley Trojans band was heading to Columbus when this fiery crash happened. Thinking of all those involved and the parents waiting to hear from their children. pic.twitter.com/GGhfLXanhP

— Lacey Crisp (@LaceyCrisp) November 14, 2023

At least three people are dead and fifteen others injured, according to multiple reports.

The Ohio Department of Transportation says that I-70 is closed in both directions at SR 310. The closure is expected to remain in place for several hours.

Tuscarawas Valley High School released the following statement:

Dear Tusky Valley School Community,

I have devastating and heartbreaking news to report.

Today, a charter bus carrying Tusky Valley students and chaperones on the way to the Ohio School Boards Association conference in Columbus was involved in a very serious accident.

We understand from law enforcement that there may be multiple serious injuries and we are working to learn the details. We will share news with you as we are able, including our plans for upcoming school days and events.

Right now, our focus is on getting in touch with our Tusky Valley families who had loved ones on the bus and providing support to our entire school community. Our Trojan family is strong, and it will take that strength and love to get throughout these coming challenging days.

The cause of the crash is under investigation by the Ohio State Highway Patrol.

Follow the Ohio State Highway Patrol for the latest information on the road closure.

ROAD CLOSED: I-70, near state Route 310, Etna Township, Licking County is currently closed in both directions. Troopers, fire and EMS are currently on the scene of a serious injury crash. Please avoid the area & continue to follow this account for updates. #I70MP118Crash pic.twitter.com/aSJEfrDCWC

— OSHP_CentralOhio (@OSHP_CentralOH) November 14, 2023