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POTRERO, San Diego County, Calif., Nov. 9, 2026 — A driver died, and two elementary school students were injured on Friday afternoon, November 6, in a crash involving a school bus near Potrero, according to Cal Fire.
The collision happened shortly before 3:40 p.m. between a sedan and a Mountain Empire Unified School District bus near the intersection of State Route 94 and Plaskon Lane. When fire crews arrived, the driver of the sedan was found dead at the scene. That person's identity had not been released as of this writing.
The bus was carrying 35 students from Potrero Elementary School at the time of the crash. Two children suffered minor injuries and were taken to local hospitals by ambulance. Potrero Elementary School staff helped arrange transportation and pickup for the remaining students, who were not hurt.
Officials initially declared a mass casualty incident because of the number of children on board and the possibility of further injuries, a designation that brought in extra resources and coordination through the California Office of Emergency Services. The California Highway Patrol responded as well and is investigating what caused the collision. No cause has been confirmed.
Our condolences go out to the family and friends of the deceased.
Intersection Crashes in California
This fatal crash happened at State Route 94 and Plaskon Lane in Potrero, CA. Our California intersections page covers intersection crashes across California.
Frequently Asked Questions
How are fatal crashes like this one investigated?
Agencies such as the California Highway Patrol typically examine the vehicles, the roadway, witness accounts, and any available video to piece together how the crash occurred. Fire and emergency crews on scene also document injuries and conditions that may factor into the investigation.
How long does an investigation like this usually take?
A full determination of cause can take anywhere from several weeks to a few months, depending on whether crash reconstruction, toxicology results, or mechanical inspections are needed.
Does impairment usually play a role in fatal crashes?
It can, but investigators do not confirm impairment until toxicology and blood-alcohol results come back, so early reports usually describe the cause as still under review.
Where do fatal crashes most frequently happen?
They are common on rural highways and two-lane state routes, where higher speeds and intersections without signals can raise the risk of a serious collision.
