1 Killed In Head-On Crash With School Bus On Manhattan-Monee Road: Manhattan Fire

MANHATTAN, IL — One person was killed in a head-on crash involving a school bus Thursday morning in Manhattan, officials said.

At approximately 8:25 a.m., the Manhattan Fire Protection District responded to a traffic crash involving a school bus transporting Manhattan School District 114 students and a passenger vehicle near the intersection of Manhattan-Monee Road and Kankakee Street.

Crews at the scene located a school bus carrying 10 students and one driver. All students were evaluated at the scene. School district officials also responded and assisted with students’ care and reunification efforts, fire officials said.

Due to the severity of the accident, fire officials say all children and the driver were taken to area hospitals for evaluation for precautionary measures. All parents and guardians were contacted.

One person in the passenger vehicle is confirmed to have been killed, fire officials said. That person’s identity had not been released as of 9:45 p.m.

No major injuries were reported among the children on the school bus.

“Our hearts are with everyone impacted by this tragic incident,” said Manhattan District 114 Superintendent Dr. Damien Aherne. “We are grateful for the swift response of our first responders and our school staff, whose priority was ensuring the safety and well-being of our students. We will continue to provide support to our students and their families during this difficult time.”

Several agencies responded and remained at the scene of the crash, including Manhattan Fire, Illinois State Police and Manhattan Police.

Manhattan-Monee Road was closed for several hours between Schoolhouse and Cedar roads while Illinois State Police investigated.

Additional information will be released as it becomes available.