The incident occurred around 2 p.m. near Crescent Knoll Road on Route 543, where emergency responders quickly blocked off the area to manage the crash scene. Fortunately, no students aboard the school bus sustained injuries, but the emotional impact remains significant for everyone involved.
Details of the Harford County Crash
According to the Harford County Sheriff’s Office, the crash involved a Harford County Public School bus and two vehicles. A car traveling northbound on Route 543 attempted a left turn onto Crescent Knoll Drive but was struck from behind by another vehicle. This impact pushed the car into the path of the school bus, causing the fatal collision.
Key facts reported by deputies include:
- A 16-year-old girl died at the scene.
- A 17-year-old boy sustained significant injuries and was airlifted to Shock Trauma for emergency treatment.
- The driver of the vehicle responsible for pushing the teenagers’ car into the bus, a 39-year-old, was also hospitalized.
- No students on the school bus were hurt, and they were safely transported back to C. Milton Wright High School for pickup by family members.
Parent Keri Ainsworth described the impact, saying,
“From what I understand, a car was trying to pull into the neighborhood, and the bus, they just hit each other, and I guess, on impact, it hit another car. Their faces, they looked scared. I could only imagine.”
Community Grieves and Rallies Together
The crash has left the local high school community and wider Harford County deeply shaken. Sophomore Elijah Kirsch, who knew the girl who died, shared his heartbreak, telling,
“Close friend, prayers up for her, she sadly didn’t make it. Now that I know what happened, I’m pretty beat up, but there’s nothing else we can do but keep her in our prayers.”
He added that the community is coming together in support and prayer during this difficult time.
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School and First Responders Provide Support
Recognizing the trauma experienced by students and staff at C. Milton Wright High School, Principal Bryan Pawlicki sent a letter to families assuring them that additional staff and counseling services would be available. He expressed gratitude towards emergency personnel for their swift response:
“I want to take a moment to thank the first responders who acted quickly to the scene and provided medical care to all those in need.”
Authorities continue to investigate the crash to determine the precise circumstances and any contributing factors. The Harford County Sheriff’s Office extended condolences, stating, “Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of everyone involved in today’s collision, especially those who lost a loved one.”
For further details on this developing story, visit the original report at CBS Baltimore.
Remembering Those Affected
This tragic accident serves as a solemn reminder of the importance of road safety and community support in times of crisis. The loss of a young life and the serious injuries sustained have left a lasting impact on Harford County residents.
- The teenager victims were members of the local community and peers of high school students.
- School officials and emergency services are coordinating to offer counseling and assistance.
- The investigation is ongoing to provide answers and prevent future incidents.
What do you think about this tragic crash in Harford County? Have you or someone you know been affected by similar road incidents? Share your thoughts and support for the community in the comments below!