LaPorte County, IN — On the afternoon of Tuesday, May 6, 2025, a devastating accident involving two mini school buses, a box truck, and a commercial vehicle sent shockwaves through the LaPorte County community. The crash, which took place at the U.S. 20 and Fail Road intersection, near New Prairie High School, resulted in several injuries, including those of students, coaches, and other passengers, who were en route to an athletic event.

The buses, operated by New Prairie United School Corporation, were carrying members of the New Prairie High School junior varsity (JV) baseball team and their coaches to an away game when tragedy struck. By the end of the day, eight individuals were injured, with at least one student airlifted to a regional trauma center. The Hobart High School Athletic Department confirmed that both the JV and varsity baseball games scheduled for that evening had been canceled in light of the incident.

Details of the Incident: The Collision and Immediate Aftermath

At approximately 3:15 p.m. CDT, the peaceful afternoon drive for the students and staff of New Prairie High School was interrupted by the screech of tires and the sickening crunch of metal on metal. According to reports from the LaPorte County Sheriff’s Office, the sequence of events began when a single-axle box truck collided with the two school buses, pushing the vehicles into chaos.

Eyewitness reports suggest that the force of the collision caused at least one of the buses to roll over. The exact mechanics of how the crash unfolded are still being pieced together by investigators, but it’s believed that the box truck may have failed to slow down in time, striking the buses in the midst of the intersection. In addition to the two school buses and the box truck, a fourth commercial vehicle was involved in the crash. The LaPorte County Sheriff’s Office has not yet released specific details on the role of the fourth vehicle, and investigators are still piecing together how it contributed to the overall collision.

At the scene, first responders rushed to assist the injured, including several students who had sustained varying degrees of injury. The severity of the injuries remains unclear at this time, though eight individuals were taken to local hospitals for medical treatment. Among the injured, one student was airlifted by helicopter to a nearby regional trauma center, where they were expected to receive more specialized care.

Immediate Impact on the Community: Responses from Local Authorities and Officials

In response to the accident, LaPorte County Sheriff’s Office and New Prairie United School Corporation issued a joint statement, expressing their grief and concern for the victims. The statement read, “Several subjects were injured and transported to area hospitals for treatment. The crash is under investigation, and no further information is being released at this time.” The message reiterated that the authorities were working diligently to understand the circumstances of the crash and its causes.

Following the incident, significant road closures were implemented in the area. Eastbound U.S. 20 was shut down at State Road 39, while westbound U.S. 20 was closed at the State Road 2 Dogbone interchange. Additionally, Fail Road was closed in both directions as emergency responders and law enforcement personnel worked at the scene. The closures led to major disruptions, with traffic being rerouted in the hours following the incident.

The New Prairie United School Corporation also stepped in to offer support for students and staff affected by the tragedy. School officials confirmed that counseling services were made available to students, families, and staff members in the wake of the incident. While the exact number of students impacted remains unclear, it’s clear that the tragedy affected the entire school community.

The Victims: Who Were the Individuals on the Bus?

At this time, the names of those injured in the crash, along with their current conditions, have not been fully disclosed. However, the victims are believed to include members of the New Prairie High School JV baseball team, coaches, and potentially other staff members who were accompanying the team to the away game. Given the nature of the event, it’s likely that many students and staff members will need ongoing support in coping with the emotional trauma caused by the incident.

New Prairie High School and LaPorte County are both working closely to provide counseling services to those affected by the event, and the school district has assured the community that students will have access to professionals trained to handle traumatic situations. The athletic department is also offering support to the players who may be struggling with the psychological impact of this terrible event.

Safety Concerns and Investigation: What Went Wrong?

The investigation into the crash is ongoing, with authorities trying to determine the exact circumstances that led to the accident. Crash reconstruction experts, as well as law enforcement officers, are analyzing evidence from the scene, including surveillance footage, witness statements, and physical evidence from the wreckage.

As of now, investigators have not disclosed details regarding the speed of the vehicles involved in the collision or any potential mechanical failures. While the cause of the crash remains under investigation, this incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding school bus safety and the risk of accidents when multiple vehicles are involved.

In response to the crash, New Prairie High School has committed to reviewing its transportation protocols to ensure that future travel for athletic events is as safe as possible. School districts across the nation are facing increasing pressure to maintain safety standards for students traveling to extracurricular activities, especially when they are being transported in large vehicles like school buses.

In the aftermath of the crash, LaPorte County authorities have also called for increased safety measures around high-traffic intersections and school zones. It’s likely that further discussions about traffic regulations, school bus safety, and driver awareness will take place in the coming weeks as the investigation continues.

The Impact on the School and Athletic Community: Heartfelt Reactions and Support

While the physical aftermath of the accident is still being dealt with, the emotional impact is already being felt by students, families, and teachers. The New Prairie High School athletic teams, particularly the JV baseball players, are undoubtedly struggling with the emotional trauma of the crash. Students and staff who were present at the scene, as well as those involved in the team’s scheduled games, will need ongoing support.

As part of the school’s response to the tragedy, counseling services have been provided to help students cope with their grief. The New Prairie United School Corporation has also expressed a commitment to offering mental health support to all members of the school community, with special emphasis placed on the students who were directly involved in the accident.

The Hobart High School Athletic Department, which had been set to face New Prairie High School in the evening’s games, also expressed its condolences, canceling the games out of respect for the victims and their families. This gesture reflects the sportsmanship and community spirit that transcends rivalry in moments of crisis.

Looking Ahead: Community Support and Moving Forward

While the full details of the crash continue to unfold, the community of LaPorte County and New Prairie High School will no doubt continue to lean on one another for support as they heal from this traumatic event. Local businesses, churches, and community leaders have already begun offering their assistance to the families and individuals affected by the crash.

In the coming days, memorial services and vigils are likely to take place in the memory of those injured in the crash, especially the JV baseball players, coaches, and anyone else who was involved in the tragic event. The goal will be to honor their resilience and remind the community of the importance of coming together during times of hardship.

Conclusion: A Sobering Reminder of the Importance of Road Safety

This tragic event serves as a reminder of the importance of safety on the roads, particularly in areas where young people are involved. The LaPorte County crash highlights the risks that come with traveling to extracurricular activities and the responsibility that schools and transportation companies have to ensure the safety of their students. As the investigation continues, the New Prairie community must come together to support each other and honor the memory of those affected by the crash.

The emotional toll of the incident will undoubtedly be felt for years to come, but through community support, mental health resources, and collaborative efforts, the hope is that everyone impacted can begin to heal and rebuild in the wake of this tragedy.