Mashpee, MA (April 13, 2026) – A school bus carrying 26 students crashed into a tree on Monday morning, April 13, after the driver suffered an apparent medical emergency in Mashpee.
The crash occurred around 8:40 a.m. near Old Barnstable Road and Leather Leaf Lane. Police said the bus was transporting students aged 6 to 12 to Quashnet Intermediate School and Kenneth C. Coombs School when the incident happened.
According to officials, the driver experienced a medical episode while operating the bus, causing the vehicle to leave the roadway and strike a tree. Emergency units responded quickly to the scene.
The driver was transported to Cape Cod Hospital with what police described as life-threatening injuries. One student was also taken to Falmouth Hospital as a precautionary measure.
Authorities confirmed that all 26 students were safely accounted for, and no serious injuries were reported among the children. Photos from the scene showed damage to the bus, including a cracked windshield. The Mashpee Police Department continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash.
We are thinking of the driver and wish for strength during medical care.
How Medical Emergencies Can Affect School Transportation Safety
School buses are designed with strong safety features to protect passengers, but unexpected medical emergencies involving drivers can still lead to serious incidents. When a driver becomes unresponsive, vehicles may drift from the roadway or lose control.
In these situations, quick reactions from passengers or built-in safety systems can help reduce harm. Many school buses are equipped with high-strength frames and reinforced seating to protect children during sudden impacts.
Emergency response teams often prioritize both driver and student safety after such events. Schools may also provide counseling and support services to help students process the experience.
