Kosciusko County, IN (May 5, 2026) – A crash involving a pickup truck and a Wawasee Community School bus was reported Monday afternoon, May 4, leaving several people injured along a rural roadway east of CR 750 E. Emergency units responded to the scene shortly after the collision.
According to available information, the pickup truck was traveling west on CR 500 N when it crossed the center line, and it then struck an eastbound school bus head-on in the opposite lane. The impact caused significant damage to both vehicles and disrupted traffic in the area.
The 64-year-old driver of the pickup truck sustained serious injuries and was airlifted to a hospital in Fort Wayne for treatment. The 63-year-old bus driver received medical attention at the scene. Three students on board the bus were also injured and taken to a nearby hospital with minor injuries.
Emergency units worked at the location to assist the injured and secure the roadway while the affected individuals received care. No additional details about the condition of those involved have been released at this stage.
Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the crash, and more details will be released as soon as they become available.
Our thoughts are with those injured as they continue to recover.
What Happens After a School Bus Crash in Rural Areas?
After a crash involving a school bus, responders usually focus first on checking everyone involved for injuries and ensuring safe transport to medical care. Attention is often given to both drivers and passengers, especially when children are present.
Investigators typically review the positions of the vehicles, road layout, and possible driver actions leading up to the collision. These early observations help build a clearer picture of how the crash occurred.
Road conditions such as lane markings, visibility, and weather can also be assessed. Even in rural areas with lighter traffic, these factors may influence how a vehicle moves across lanes or reacts in sudden situations.