Gastonia, February 13, 2026
A school bus carrying 48 students crashed in Gastonia, North Carolina, injuring 14 students with non-life-threatening injuries. The bus veered off the road and into a wooded area, prompting emergency response. While no severe injuries were reported, one student may have a broken arm. The incident has raised community concerns about road safety. An investigation into the cause of the crash is currently underway.
Gastonia
A school bus crash in Gastonia, North Carolina, on Thursday afternoon, February 12, 2026, resulted in 14 students sustaining non-life-threatening injuries. The bus, carrying 48 students and a driver, veered off Jenkins Dairy Road and Jenkins Road, crashing into a wooded area. All injured students were transported to a hospital for treatment. One student reportedly suffered a possible broken arm.
The incident occurred around 3 p.m. EST. Emergency personnel responded to the scene where the Gaston County Schools bus, identified as bus No. 505, was found among trees. Students onboard were from Bessemer City Primary and Bessemer City Central Elementary schools. Due to the front doors being obstructed by a large tree, students had to exit the bus through its emergency rear door. Uninjured students were later transported to their respective schools by another bus to be reunited with their parents or guardians.
Investigation Underway
Authorities indicated that the bus driver reportedly swerved, overcorrected, and subsequently drove off the road. While the investigation into the exact cause of the crash is ongoing, a student aboard the bus reportedly stated that the bus was traveling too fast. No further details regarding the bus driver or the specific events leading up to the swerving have been released at this time.
Community Concerns and Road Safety
The crash site at Jenkins Dairy Road and Jenkins Road has prompted discussions among local residents regarding road safety. A neighbor living near the accident location described the area as unsafe, noting a “bad curb” and past accidents. This resident mentioned that petitions have been made to try and have the curb removed, citing a history of wrecks in the vicinity. As emergency services worked at the scene, the damaged bus was eventually towed away. Local officials have not yet commented on the long-term implications for road safety measures in the area following this incident.
Support for Students and Families
Following the crash, school officials ensured that parents of the injured students were contacted. The prompt response by emergency teams helped manage the situation and address the immediate needs of the students and the driver. While none of the injuries were life-threatening, the event underscores the importance of ongoing vigilance in student transportation safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened in Gastonia, North Carolina?
A school bus crash occurred in Gastonia, North Carolina, on Thursday afternoon, February 12, 2026, where a bus carrying 48 students and a driver veered off the road and crashed into a wooded area.
When did the Gastonia school bus crash happen?
The crash happened on Thursday afternoon, February 12, 2026, around 3 p.m. EST.
Where did the school bus crash take place?
The school bus crash occurred at the intersection of Jenkins Dairy Road and Jenkins Road in Gastonia, North Carolina.
How many students were injured in the Gastonia bus crash?
Fourteen students sustained non-life-threatening injuries and were transported to a hospital.
Were there any serious injuries reported?
One student reportedly suffered a possible broken arm, but all reported student injuries were non-life-threatening.
What caused the school bus to crash?
Police stated that the bus driver swerved, overcorrected, and drove off the road. A student on board reported the bus was going too fast.
Which schools were the students from?
The bus was transporting students from Bessemer City Primary and Bessemer City Central Elementary schools.
How many people were on the bus?
There were 48 students and one driver on the bus at the time of the crash.
Key Features of the Gastonia School Bus Crash
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Date and Time | Thursday afternoon, February 12, 2026, around 3 p.m. EST |
| Location | Jenkins Dairy Road and Jenkins Road, Gastonia, North Carolina |
| Number of Students Injured | 14 |
| Nature of Injuries | Non-life-threatening; one possible broken arm reported |
| Total Occupants on Bus | 48 students and 1 driver |
| Bus Identity | Gaston County Schools bus No. 505 |
| Schools Served | Bessemer City Primary and Bessemer City Central Elementary |
| Reported Cause | Driver swerved, overcorrected, and drove off the road; student reported bus going too fast |
| Current Status | Investigation ongoing |
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