MOSCOW, December 3 (Sputnik) — Two students, as well as an adult, have been killed and 27 people have been injured after two buses collided on a Tennessee highway, the Associated Press reported, citing local officials.
The deceased are reported to be two girls from Sunnyview Primary School and a female teacher’s aide, according to the Knoxville News Sentinel. The names of the victims have so far not been made public. The authorities have only said that all the children on board were kindergarten through third grade students.
An investigation into what caused one bus to veer across the highway and hit the second vehicle is underway.
"Our families and community suffered an unspeakable tragedy today, and our thoughts and prayers are with all of the families and staff members at Chilhowee Intermediate School and Sunnyview Primary School," Knox County Schools Superintendent Dr. Jim McIntyre said in a statement. Grief counselors will be available for those in need of support, McIntyre added. Classes have been cancelled in both schools on Wednesday.
The injured were taken to the University of Tennessee Medical Center and East Tennessee Children's Hospital. Three seriously injured people are reportedly in stable condition. Three people have been discharged from the hospital after receiving medical checkups. 20 children sustained minor injuries.
The two vehicles were travelling in opposite directions. One bus was driving children home from Sunnyview Primary School, whilst the other was from Chilhowee Intermediate School.
