WINTER HAVEN, Fla. —
Two people were killed after a major school bus crash in Winter Haven on Monday morning, according to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office.
Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd said the incident happened around 6:15 a.m.
He said the school bus was traveling eastbound on Old Lucerne Park Road when a westbound white Chevy Malibu crashed into it.
Judd said this caused the bus to lose control and tear off its tire. The bus then collided head-on with a Jeep and ultimately overturned.
As a result, two people were killed, including a 10th-grade student.
In addition to the school bus, three other vehicles were involved in the crash.
The school bus was carrying 39 people, including 37 high school students, who were on their way to Winter Haven High School.
The other two people on the bus were identified as the school bus driver and the driver’s 9-year-old daughter.
The Winter Haven Police Department said Lucerne Park Road is shut down in both directions at US-27.
Officials said the closure is expected to last a long time.
Drivers are asked to avoid Lucerne Park Road.
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Polk County Public Schools statement
“A PCPS school bus was involved in a serious accident this morning in Winter Haven, which claimed the life of a Winter Haven High student and another motorist.
This is devastating news for WHHS and our community. We are praying for the victims and their families. Thank you to the many dedicated first responders who provided essential support this morning.”
Chopper 2 on scenePhotos
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