A harrowing bus accident involving University of South Carolina students left eleven injured after the vehicle blew a tire and collided with a concrete barrier in Mississippi.
Mississippi state troopers disclosed that both the driver, Tina Wilson of Roebuck, South Carolina, and a student were critically injured and airlifted to hospitals following the Friday crash, with nine other students transported by ambulance. The group of 56 passengers comprised members of the university’s Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity and their guests en route to an event in New Orleans.
The ordeal unfolded as the bus, traveling west on Interstate 10 near Bay St. Louis, suffered a blown tire, causing it to strike a center concrete barrier. Despite the chaos, Wilson’s quick thinking and remarkable resolve prevented further catastrophe. Bay St. Louis Police Chief Toby Schwartz recounted how Wilson, with sheer determination, managed to regain control of the careening bus, averting a potential flip.
Witnessing Wilson’s heroic efforts, student Paul Clune rushed to assist, grasping the steering wheel to help stabilize the vehicle until it eventually came to a halt nearly half a mile later.
Chief Schwartz hailed Wilson and Clune as instrumental in preventing further harm, emphasizing, “It’s the bus driver and student that saved those kids. The bus driver is an incredible hero.”
While the uninjured students were rerouted to their destination, University of South Carolina officials have extended support to those affected by the accident, arranging travel accommodations and offering mental health and academic assistance.
As investigations into the crash ensue, Todd Dixon, owner of the bus company involved, Dixon Motor Xpress, expressed shock over the incident, asserting the company’s steadfast commitment to safety. Dixon lauded Wilson’s extensive experience and credited her instinctive caution behind the wheel.
In the wake of tragedy, the courage and swift action of Wilson and Clune stand as beacons of hope, underscoring the resilience and compassion within communities during times of crisis.