Breaking News: Tragic School Bus Crash on I-77 Claims Life of 13-Year-Old, Several Others Injured

Chester County, South Carolina — April 17, 2025 — According to WCNC, a devastating school bus crash on Interstate 77 left one child dead and several others seriously injured, following what officials say was a mechanical failure.

The incident occurred near Exit 55 on the southbound side of I-77, approximately 40 miles south of Charlotte. The overturned bus was transporting students from Pine Ridge Middle School in Lexington County who were returning home from a school field trip in North Carolina. Officials later confirmed the student who lost his life in the crash was 13-year-old Jose Maria Gonzales Linares, an 8th-grade student. The Chester County Coroner identified him.

According to early reports, the bus was one of three transporting students from Charlotte. A Lexington School District Two spokesperson said a tire blew out, causing the driver to lose control of the vehicle. The bus overturned, sending emergency crews scrambling to the scene. The two other buses were not involved in the crash.

Emergency responders—including paramedics, law enforcement, school personnel, and air medical units—quickly arrived. At least five individuals were rushed to area hospitals in critical condition, although it remains unclear how many of those were students. Atrium Health’s MedCenter Air helicopter was spotted leaving the site, reportedly transporting at least one victim to Charlotte for urgent care.

Traffic along I-77 South was backed up for hours as investigators worked at the scene and emergency crews assessed injuries and cleared the wreckage. The school district set up a reunification site near Exit 48, where worried parents could reconnect with their children. District staff, counselors, and volunteers were present to support families and offer resources during the emotionally complex process.

In a public statement, Lexington District Two acknowledged the tragic loss and outlined the situation:

“This afternoon, one of our buses transporting Pine Ridge Middle School students home from a field trip was involved in a serious accident following a tire blowout. Two adults and approximately 35 students were aboard at the time. Emergency personnel responded quickly, and several students have been taken for further evaluation and care. Our thoughts are with all those impacted.”

Later that evening, South Carolina State Superintendent Ellen Weaver released a heartfelt message:

“We are heartbroken by the tragedy that occurred in Chester County today. The entire state stands with the Pine Ridge Middle School community in mourning. Please keep the families, classmates, and educators in your thoughts and prayers.”

To support the students, families, and staff affected, the school district has created an online donation page for those wishing to assist the Pine Ridge Middle School community during this incredibly difficult time. The South Carolina Highway Patrol continues investigating the crash and evaluating the circumstances surrounding the tire failure and vehicle maintenance.

Our thoughts are with the friends, family, and loved ones of the deceased.

The Ramsay Law Firm has attorneys who are Board Certified in Workers’ Compensation claims to help individuals with severe injuries and death claims.

A Voice For The Injured. Here Every Step of The Way. Call 704-376-1616 or contact us online.

Notes: Our team created this post using secondary sources and has not independently verified all the facts surrounding the accident. If you find any incorrect details, please contact the Ramsay Law Firm so we can update the post with the most accurate information. This post will be removed if requested.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this post is not intended to be legal or medical advice and is not a solicitation for business. The photograph used in this post is not representative of this accident. If you are injured in an accident, seek medical attention immediately, then speak to a North Carolina personal injury lawyer as soon as possible.