Moline, IL (February 12, 2026) – A driver suspected of driving under the influence sideswiped a school bus carrying Rock Island High School students Tuesday night in Moline, leaving both drivers injured but no students hurt, according to police.
The crash occurred around 9:30 p.m. in the 3600 block of Ave of the Cities. Police said a westbound Johannes Bus Service vehicle was struck after an eastbound Hyundai Sonata crossed the center line. The impact caused heavy front-end damage to the Sonata.
Authorities reported that the Hyundai’s driver, identified as 50-year-old Sean E. Henson of Moline, had to be extricated by the Moline Fire Department. Both Henson and the bus driver were transported to a local hospital with minor injuries.
The bus was carrying 18 cheerleaders and coaches at the time of the crash. School administrators responded to the scene and arranged alternate transportation for the students. Police cited Henson for improper lane usage and driving under the influence of alcohol. The Moline Police Department Traffic Unit continues to investigate the incident.
Key Details
- Location: 3600 block of Ave of the Cities, Moline
- Reported: February 11 at 9:30 p.m.
- Type: DUI-related sideswipe crash involving school bus
- Injuries: Both drivers transported with minor injuries; no students hurt
- Students: 18 cheerleaders and coaches on board
- Status: Investigation ongoing by Moline Police Traffic Unit
What We Know So Far
- Police say the Hyundai crossed the center line and struck the westbound bus.
- The Hyundai driver was extricated by Moline Fire Department crews.
- Both drivers were taken to a hospital for treatment of minor injuries.
- The driver of the Hyundai was cited for DUI and improper lane usage.
What’s Not Yet Confirmed
- Whether additional charges could be filed.
- The full extent of the drivers’ injuries.
- Whether any mechanical issues contributed to the crash.
Local Context
The 3600 block of Ave of the Cities is a multi-lane corridor that runs through a busy commercial stretch of Moline, connecting retail areas and residential neighborhoods. Traffic along this route often includes school transportation vehicles, local commuters, and evening shoppers. Because the roadway carries opposing lanes separated by a center line rather than a median in some sections, maintaining lane position is critical. When a crash involving a school bus occurs along this corridor, emergency responders must manage traffic flow while ensuring the safety of passengers and coordinating medical care for those injured.
What to Do Next
- If you were involved, move to a safe location if possible and check for injuries. Call 911 if anyone needs medical attention.
- Remain at the scene and cooperate with first responders. Leaving before police arrive can create complications later.
- If it’s safe, take photos of vehicle damage, road conditions, and the surrounding area.
- Keep paperwork from the incident in one place for easy reference.
FAQ
Q: What should drivers do when approaching an active crash scene?
A: Drivers should slow down, stay alert for emergency personnel, and follow any posted instructions or lane changes to help protect those working at the scene.
Q: Why do highway or multi-lane crashes often lead to traffic backups?
A: Crashes on busy corridors can block lanes or reduce speeds, causing congestion to build quickly as vehicles merge or reroute around the scene.
Q: Who decides whether citations are issued after a crash?
A: Law enforcement officers evaluate the evidence, review statements, and consider applicable traffic laws before determining whether violations occurred and issuing citations.
Source
Read the original coverage here: original report.