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Eatonville, WA (June 13, 2026) – A deadly crash involving a truck and a school bus closed both directions of State Route 161 near Eatonville on Thursday, June 11, officials said.
Rescue personnel arrived at the scene near milepost 18, close to Eustis Hunt Road, after the collision blocked the roadway in both directions. Officials stated that the crash involved a truck and a school bus operated by the Eatonville School District.
The driver of the truck was initially reported in critical condition but later died at the scene. Approximately 40 students were on board the bus at the time of the crash. No serious injuries were reported among the students, though one student was taken to a hospital with minor injuries.
The students involved were 8th graders returning from a field trip. The school district stated that counseling support will be made available to students and families following the incident.
We extend our sincere condolences to the family of the deceased driver.
What Is Typically Examined After a School Bus Collision?
Crashes involving school buses often require careful investigation due to the number of passengers involved and the complexity of the roadway environment. Investigators typically review vehicle positions, impact points, speed, and roadway conditions to determine how the collision occurred.
In addition, authorities may examine driver actions, visibility, and traffic flow at the time of the crash. Because school buses carry multiple passengers, emergency response coordination and passenger safety procedures are also reviewed. Evidence such as vehicle damage, skid marks, and witness accounts can help reconstruct the sequence of events. These findings are used to better understand what led to the collision and how similar incidents might be prevented in the future.
