Bus Crash Injures 11 Students

Louisiana State Police Troop E report a bus crash in Rapides Parish that sent 11 students and the bus driver to the hospital.

Early this morning, a single vehicle crash involving a school bus injured eleven children and the driver. A large amount of mud was on the road, which is considered a factor in the crash.

Troopers responded to the crash around 6:15 a.m., which occurred on LA Hwy 121 south of LA Hwy 496. The crash involved a 2001 International (school bus), driven by Jake D. Lawson (B/M 33 yrs) of Boyce, LA. The school bus was northbound on LA Hwy 121 when Lawson encountered the large amount of mud on the roadway. He then lost control and exited the left side of the roadway before the school bus overturned on its side.

All eleven children and the driver received minor to moderate injuries and were transported to local hospitals. The children ranged in age from five to fifteen.

The crash remains under investigation.

DOTD and the Cotile Fire Department assisted in the removal of the mud from the roadway.

Portions of Central and North Louisiana are still experiencing hazardous driving conditions from the current weather. If you must travel, please exercise extreme caution by decreasing your speed, allow extra time to reach your destination, allow extra space between vehicles, and brake gently.

Stayed tuned to local media and LSP Facebook for the latest conditions Troopers are encountering. You may also visit www.511la.org or call 511 for the latest road closures.

If you experience difficulties or witness hazardous situations while on the highway, you may notify the nearest State Police Troop office by dialing *LSP (*577) from your cell phone or contact your local law enforcement agency.

(Louisiana State Police)