Johnston City, IL (September 22, 2025) – A crash involving a Johnston City School District bus and a black Nissan SUV resulted in injuries Monday morning on Illinois Route 37 at Foxcroft Dr. Emergency personnel responded quickly to the scene, where approximately 30 students were onboard at the time of the collision.
According to the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office, the crash occurred when the school bus was stopped in traffic, preparing to make a left turn. It was then struck from behind by the SUV, driven by Michael Redmon of Pittsburg, IL. County officials reported that slick road conditions caused by heavy rain contributed to the crash.
Several children sustained injuries and were transported to nearby hospitals for precautionary evaluation. Officials emphasized that the injuries were not considered life-threatening. Personnel from the Williamson County Fire Department, United EMS, and the Sheriff’s Office were on scene, along with Johnston City School Superintendent Josh Pietrantoni and additional school representatives.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the collision, and no further details have been released at this time. Our thoughts are with the students and their families as they recover from this frightening incident.
School Bus Crashes in Illinois
Monday’s crash along Illinois Route 37 serves as a serious reminder of the vulnerability of school transportation during inclement weather. When rain makes roads slick, braking distances are increased and visibility can be reduced—both critical factors in rear-end collisions like this one. Fortunately, in this case, emergency protocols were followed promptly, and only minor injuries were reported.
Crashes involving school buses carry a unique emotional and community impact. With dozens of children onboard, the stakes are significantly higher, and incidents often result in heightened concern from families and school officials alike. While school buses are among the safest forms of transportation for students, accidents can still occur when road conditions or driver errors come into play.
This incident highlights the importance of driver awareness in wet weather and the need to maintain safe following distances, particularly near stopped or turning vehicles. It also reinforces the importance of local school districts having clear crisis response procedures in place, which can help minimize harm and provide families with reassurance during high-stress situations.
If your child has been involved in a school transportation accident in Southern Illinois, Local Accident Reports is here to support you. We assist families in accessing medical documentation, official crash reports, and appropriate recovery resources. Reach out today to take proactive steps in protecting your child’s health and legal rights.
