Lame Deer, MT (April 18, 2025) – A devastating crash occurred early Tuesday morning on Highway 212, resulting in the deaths of three individuals and injuries to two others after a passenger vehicle collided with a stopped school bus. The Montana Highway Patrol (MHP) responded to the scene and is continuing to investigate the tragic incident.
The crash took place shortly after 7:00 a.m., when a Honda Civic traveling eastbound on the highway rear-ended a stopped school bus that was picking up children. According to MHP, the bus was properly stopped and had its safety equipment activated when the crash occurred. Fortunately, no one on the school bus, including the 71-year-old driver, was injured in the collision.
Inside the Honda Civic were five individuals, all believed to be from Arkansas. The 19-year-old male driver and one passenger survived the crash but sustained injuries and were transported to St. Vincent’s Hospital for treatment. Tragically, three other occupants of the car died at the scene. Among the deceased were an 18-year-old woman and two additional passengers, one of whom may have been an infant. MHP confirmed that none of the deceased were wearing seatbelts at the time of the collision.
Authorities have not determined any role of speed, alcohol, or drug use in the crash, though the investigation is ongoing. The severity of the crash and the vulnerability of the victims, particularly if one was an infant, have deeply impacted the local community.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of those lost in this heartbreaking tragedy, and we hope for a full recovery for the injured individuals.
School Bus Safety and Rear-End Collision Risks in Montana
This week’s fatal crash on Highway 212 highlights the critical importance of safe driving practices near school buses and the devastating consequences that can occur when vehicles fail to stop in time. School buses are required to stop for student pick-up and drop-off, and all drivers must yield to these stops to protect the safety of children.
In this incident, the school bus was stationary, performing a routine pick-up, when it was struck from behind by a Honda Civic. Rear-end collisions with stopped vehicles—especially larger, heavier ones like school buses—can result in catastrophic injuries or fatalities for the occupants of the smaller vehicle. That was tragically the case here.
Seatbelt use remains a major factor in crash survival rates. According to MHP, the three victims who died in the Honda were not wearing seatbelts. Seatbelts are known to reduce the risk of fatal injury in passenger vehicles by 45% and moderate-to-critical injury by 50%. When seatbelts are not worn, the chances of being thrown forward or out of a vehicle during impact increase dramatically.
School transportation safety relies heavily on public awareness and cautious driver behavior. Crashes like this not only impact those involved but also send ripples of grief and concern throughout the community, especially when young people or children are among the victims. The presence of an infant among the deceased only deepens the sorrow of this crash’s outcome.
Drivers in Montana are urged to slow down in school zones and near school buses, especially during morning hours when children are being picked up. Even a moment of inattention or misjudgment can have life-altering consequences.
The recovery process for survivors and families of victims in crashes like this is often long and difficult. Emotional trauma, medical care, and legal complexities can all weigh heavily on those left behind.
If you or your loved ones have been impacted by a crash involving a school bus or serious injury, Local Accident Reports can help. We provide timely, local information and connect you with trusted support services—from medical specialists to legal professionals—so you’re never navigating this difficult time alone. Reach out to Local Accident Reports for the guidance and care you need to take your next steps forward.
