Nashville, TN — Authorities are investigating a serious crash that occurred Wednesday evening involving a church bus and a semi-trailer at the intersection of Highway 25 West and Sulphur College Road in Trousdale County.
According to the Trousdale County Sheriff’s Department, the crash took place at approximately 5:21 p.m. when the church bus, carrying 14 juvenile passengers and a driver, stopped at a stop sign on Sulphur College Road. As the bus attempted to pull onto Highway 25, it was struck by a semi-trailer traveling westbound on the highway. The semi, which was hauling a livestock trailer filled with cattle, collided with the right side of the bus, causing the truck to overturn and come to rest across the highway.
Emergency responders quickly arrived at the scene, and five individuals, including several passengers from the bus, were transported to local hospitals for treatment of their injuries. While the severity of the injuries has not been disclosed, the Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP) reported that all individuals involved in the crash were conscious and alert. Authorities confirmed that families of the injured have been notified.
The semi-trailer, which was carrying livestock, was significantly damaged in the crash, and offloading the cattle has become a major part of the ongoing cleanup operation. The incident has caused significant traffic disruption, with Highway 25 West remaining closed while crews work to clear the wreckage and ensure the safety of all involved.
The THP indicated that cleanup efforts at the scene could take an extended amount of time due to the need to safely remove the overturned semi-trailer and deal with the livestock. While the investigation into the cause of the crash continues, authorities have advised motorists to avoid the area and seek alternate routes.
As of late Wednesday night, it remains unclear when the road will be reopened.
This crash is under active investigation by the Tennessee Highway Patrol, and further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.