Hailey
A serious school bus accident in Audrain County, Missouri, left five students and one adult injured on October 2, 2025.
The North Callaway School District bus was carrying children to school when it collided with a Ford F-150 pickup truck at a rural intersection.
The crash caused the bus to overturn onto its side, prompting an immediate emergency response.
While all victims suffered moderate injuries, officials confirmed that none of the injuries were life-threatening.
Details of the Crash
The collision happened shortly after 7:00 a.m. at the intersection of Audrain County Roads 845 and 852.
According to initial reports, the Ford F-150 was traveling northbound when it slid on the road and hit the school bus, causing the bus to tip over.
The Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP) and local EMS teams arrived quickly.
Parents of the students were notified, and the injured were transported to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment.
Who Was Injured
The injured included five students and the 21-year-old driver of the Ford F-150.
The students ranged from 9 to 17 years old. Their conditions were described as moderate but stable.
Three additional students were on board but were not seriously injured. They were checked at the scene and later released to their parents.
Schools and District Response
The North Callaway School District confirmed that the bus was carrying students to Williamsburg Elementary, North Callaway Middle School, and North Callaway High School.
The district issued a statement thanking first responders and assuring parents that immediate care and communication were their top priority.
Safety Concerns Raised
This incident has raised renewed discussions about school bus safety in Missouri.
Large school buses in the state are not required to have seat belts, as they rely on compartmentalized seating—high-backed, padded seats placed close together.
The crash also highlights the dangers of rural road intersections, especially during early morning commutes when conditions can lead to loss of traction.
Key Facts At A Glance
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Date of Crash | October 2, 2025 |
| Location | Audrain County Roads 845 & 852, Missouri |
| Bus Operator | North Callaway School District |
| Passengers | 8 students on board |
| Injured | 5 students (ages 9–17) + 1 adult (21-year-old truck driver) |
| Injury Status | Moderate, non-life-threatening |
| Hospital | University Hospital, Columbia |
| Other Students | 3 evaluated and released to parents |
| Crash Outcome | Bus overturned on its side after collision |
Investigation and Next Steps
The Missouri State Highway Patrol is investigating the cause of the crash.
Authorities are examining road conditions, vehicle mechanics, and driver actions to determine fault. Depending on findings, the truck driver may face citations.
The school district is also reviewing its transportation procedures to ensure student safety going forward.
The Audrain County school bus crash serves as a reminder of the risks children face on rural roads.
While five students and one adult were injured, quick action by emergency responders and hospital staff ensured no loss of life.
The investigation will likely influence future safety policies, but for now, families can be relieved that all students are expected to recover.