Two Injured In School Bus Crash Near Pella, Iowa

Chloe Fitzgerald

3 min read

Post on May 30, 2025

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Accident Details and Location

The school bus accident occurred near the intersection of Highway 163 and Cherry Street, just outside Pella, Iowa, at approximately 3:45 PM on October 26, 2023. The school bus, a yellow district bus belonging to the Pella Community School District, was involved in a collision with a blue sedan. Initial reports from law enforcement suggest the sedan may have run a stop sign, but this is still under investigation.

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• Key Details:
  • Number of students on the bus: 25
  • Age range of students involved: 6-12 years old
  • Type of school bus: Pella Community School District bus
  • Weather conditions: Light rain, visibility reduced

Injuries and Medical Response

Two individuals sustained injuries in the Pella Iowa school bus accident: the driver of the sedan and a student on the school bus. The student suffered a minor head injury and was transported to Pella Regional Health Center as a precaution. The driver of the sedan sustained more significant injuries, including a broken arm and suspected internal injuries. They were airlifted to Mercy Medical Center in Des Moines.

• Medical Response Details:
  • Time taken for emergency services to arrive: Approximately 8 minutes.
  • Treatment administered at the scene: First aid provided by paramedics, including immobilization and pain management.
  • Transportation methods used: Ambulances and air ambulance.

Investigation and Ongoing Efforts

The Iowa State Patrol is leading the investigation into this school bus accident. Highway 163 was closed for several hours following the crash to allow for accident reconstruction and evidence collection. Investigators are currently reviewing witness statements, dashcam footage (if available), and examining the vehicles involved to determine the cause of the accident. A preliminary report is expected within a few weeks, but a full investigation may take longer.

• Investigation Steps:
  • Accident scene secured using police vehicles and cones.
  • Evidence gathered through photographs, measurements, and witness interviews.
  • Full cooperation from the Pella Community School District and parents of involved students.

School District Response and Support

The Pella Community School District released a statement expressing concern for those injured and commending the quick response of emergency services. The district is providing counseling services to students and staff affected by the incident and has implemented alternative transportation arrangements for the affected route. Parents were immediately notified via phone and email.

• School District Actions:
  • Immediate notification to parents and guardians through multiple channels.
  • On-site counselors provided at the school for students and staff.
  • Alternative transportation arrangements implemented for the remainder of the week.

Conclusion

The school bus crash near Pella, Iowa, resulted in injuries to two individuals, highlighting the ever-present risks associated with school transportation. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are working diligently to determine the exact cause of the accident. The Pella Community School District is providing comprehensive support to its students and families. We will continue to update this article as more information becomes available regarding the Pella Iowa school bus crash.

Call to Action: If you have any information that may assist in the investigation of this school bus accident, please contact the Iowa State Patrol. For further updates and information regarding school bus safety in Pella, Iowa, please continue to check back on this article and search for "Pella Iowa school bus safety" for related resources and information.