Jones County, MS (August 28, 2025) – A crash involving a school bus and a utility truck occurred Wednesday afternoon in Jones County as students were being transported home, leaving three people with reported injuries. The collision happened at approximately 2:52 p.m. near Mak’s gas station at the intersection of Eastabuchie Rd and US Highway 11.
According to the Mississippi Highway Patrol, the school bus was crossing US 11 from Eastabuchie Rd when it was struck on the side by an oncoming utility truck. Preliminary reports confirmed that the school bus had a stop sign at the crossing, while the utility truck did not.
Emergency crews responded to the scene and assessed the situation. Three individuals sustained minor injuries, though authorities have not clarified whether the injured were students, bus staff, or occupants of the utility truck. Those hurt were treated at the scene or transported for additional medical care as needed.
Both vehicles sustained moderate damage and blocked the intersection temporarily while crews worked to clear the area and ensure the safety of the children on board. School officials and parents were notified shortly after the incident, and alternative transportation was arranged for remaining students.
Officials with the Mississippi Highway Patrol have launched an investigation into the cause of the crash, including whether visibility, traffic signage, or driver inattention may have played a role. No citations have been issued as of this report.
Our thoughts are with the injured individuals and their families, and we wish them a swift and full recovery.
School Bus Safety and Roadway Intersections in Mississippi
Crashes involving school buses are rare but deeply concerning, especially when they occur during active transport routes. In this incident, the intersection of Eastabuchie Rd and US 11 presented a critical risk point, where cross traffic and unclear right-of-way situations can lead to dangerous outcomes.
School buses, despite their large size and protective design, are vulnerable when crossing highways—particularly at intersections without stoplights or with limited visibility. Although the bus had a stop sign, the combination of timing, cross-traffic speed, and driver decisions can quickly result in impact, as seen in this crash.
Mississippi road safety advocates have long raised concerns about rural and semi-rural intersections where major highways meet local roads. Many such crossings lack advanced warning systems, turning lanes, or traffic signals, which increases the likelihood of severe crashes when commercial or school vehicles are involved.
Injury reports, though minor in this case, should not be taken lightly—especially when children are on board. Head injuries, emotional trauma, and musculoskeletal injuries are common even in seemingly “minor” collisions involving school buses. As such, all involved individuals should receive full evaluations to rule out delayed symptoms.
The aftermath of any school transportation accident places added stress on families and school systems alike. Ensuring that those affected receive clear communication, access to medical follow-up, and legal clarity is critical in such scenarios.
At Local Accident Reports, we remain committed to providing timely, accurate information while helping crash victims and their families connect with trusted recovery resources. If your child or loved one has been involved in a school transportation crash, don’t hesitate to seek help and guidance in moving forward.
