Woman Critically Injured in Bus Crash Identified by Authorities

PIERCE COUNTY, WI — Authorities have released the names of two motorists who were involved in a school bus crash on Friday. One has sustained life-threatening injuries, while the other was uninjured.

On Friday, April 7, at about 6:25 a.m., the Wisconsin State Patrol responded to the scene of two-vehicle injury crash involving a minivan and school bus on Hwy 35 at Hwy D in Pierce County.

Authorities say that 55-year-old Tonya Shaw-Brunner of Nelson, Wis., suffered life-threatening injuries. She was the driver of a 2000 Toyota that reportedly struck the school bus.

The Wisconsin State Patrol also reported Monday that 74-year-old Darrell Schuster of Maiden Rock, Wis. did not suffer any injuries as the driver of the school bus.

Authorities' initial investigation determined that a school bus from the Ellsworth Community School District was stopped on Hwy 35 attempting to load students when it was rear-ended by a minivan.

According to reports, the driver of the minivan was seriously injured and had to be extricated by emergency personnel.

The school bus contained 7 occupants along with 2 students beginning to load. The two students had possible injuries but were not transported from the scene.

At the time of the crash weather and roadway conditions were clear and the school bus did have the red warning lights activated along with the stop arm extended.

According to a Wisconsin State Patrol release, "This crash is a stark reminder that morning commuters need to be attentive to quickly-changing traffic conditions. When school buses are present; slow down, give distance and be patient."

The crash remains under investigation by the Wisconsin State Patrol.

image courtesy wisconsin state patrol