In brief
An Oklahoma school bus carrying a softball team overturned after colliding with a deer, injuring seven passengers, including one critically. The crash occurred on State Highway 152 near Minco. The local community is showing support through prayers and by opening facilities for the affected families. Investigations are ongoing.
MINCO, Okla. (AP) — A school bus carrying softball team members in Oklahoma crashed into a deer and overturned, ejecting some passengers and injuring seven people, according to the state highway patrol.
The incident occurred Monday night on State Highway 152 near Minco in Grady County, roughly 40 miles southwest of Oklahoma City.
One adult who was ejected from the bus is in critical condition, while four students are reported to be in stable condition, per spokesperson Sarah Stewart from the Oklahoma Highway Patrol. The bus had a total of 17 passengers at the time of the crash. Initially, OHP reported eight injuries; however, this was later amended to seven injuries. Some students were taken from the scene by their parents before authorities arrived.
The investigation into the cause of the crash is ongoing, with the patrol working alongside the National Transportation Safety Board. Notably, Minco Public Schools Superintendent Kevin Sims indicated that the bus's driver's seat was the only one equipped with a seatbelt.
In light of the crash, school was closed on Tuesday. Sims shared a message calling for the community to pray for the student-athletes, coaches, and their families. Oklahoma U.S. Senator James Lankford also expressed his concern on social media, urging prayers for the Minco community.
The Minco First Baptist Church extended support, offering their sanctuary for prayer gatherings. The softball team was scheduled to compete at the Riverside Indian School in Anadarko on Monday evening.