Portland, TN (August 7, 2025) – Emergency responders were quick to the scene, providing care to the injured victims following a school bus crash Wednesday afternoon at the intersection of South Broadway St and East Longview Dr in Portland.
Sumner County EMS reported that the accident occurred at approximately 2:53 p.m. when a pickup truck collided with the rear end of a stopped school bus. The Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP) revealed that the bus had halted at a red light when the northbound pickup struck it from behind.
According to THP and EMS officials, there were 11 students aboard the school bus at the time of the crash. Five children sustained a variety of injuries—four were transported to nearby hospitals by ambulance, and one was taken by a parent for medical evaluation. Two other children were picked up by their parents at a designated drop-off location.
Medics and fire crews worked to assist those suffering from injuries after the collision. In addition to EMS, Sumner County deputies, the Portland Police Department, and the THP responded to the scene. Authorities have not released additional information regarding the pickup driver or any other parties involved.
The Tennessee Highway Patrol is leading the investigation into the incident. The exact cause of the crash remains under review.
Our thoughts are with those affected by this accident.
School Bus Accidents in Tennessee
Crashes involving school buses, though less frequent than general traffic incidents, raise significant concerns due to the involvement of children and their vulnerability. The recent incident in Portland highlights the importance of cautious driving near school vehicles, particularly in high-traffic intersections like South Broadway St and East Longview Dr.
In Tennessee, school transportation safety remains a statewide priority. Data from the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security has noted consistent reports of rear-end collisions involving stopped buses, often resulting from distracted or inattentive driving. These types of crashes are especially dangerous because children may not be restrained by seat belts, depending on the bus design.
Rear-end impacts, like the one in this Portland crash, are among the most common causes of school bus injuries. Parents, guardians, and school districts rely on other drivers to remain alert and maintain safe following distances. The THP continually emphasizes public awareness campaigns during the school year, reminding drivers to obey bus stop signs and reduce speed in school zones.
For families in Tennessee, an incident like this serves as a troubling reminder of the need to educate children on school bus safety and ensure they know how to react in emergencies. In addition, drivers must remain vigilant in areas where school buses frequently operate, especially at major intersections and designated stop locations.
If you or someone you know has been injured in a crash, reach out to Local Accident Reports for assistance.
