Owen Abbott, Zane Bell, and New Prairie High School JV Baseball Team Coaches Injured in LaPorte County School Bus Collision
Owen Abbott, Zane Bell, and New Prairie High School JV Baseball Team Coaches Injured in LaPorte County School Bus Collision
On Tuesday, May 6, 2025, a tragic multi-vehicle accident occurred at the intersection of U.S. 20 and Fail Road in LaPorte County, Indiana, near New Prairie High School. The incident involved two mini school buses operated by New Prairie United School Corporation, a box truck, and a commercial vehicle. The buses were transporting members of the New Prairie High School junior varsity (JV) baseball team and their coaches to an away game when the collision took place.
Incident Overview
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.
Victims and Injuries
The crash resulted in several injuries, including those of students, coaches, and other passengers. By the end of the day, eight individuals were injured, with at least one student airlifted to a regional trauma center. 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.
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.
Emergency Response and Road Closures
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.(School Transportation News)
Community Impact and Support
The LaPorte County community has been deeply affected by the incident. Local residents have expressed their shock and concern for the victims and their families. In response to the tragedy, community members have come together to offer support. Counseling services have been made available to students, staff, and families affected by the crash. Additionally, a GoFundMe campaign has been established to assist the families of the injured students with medical expenses and other needs.
Investigation and Ongoing Efforts
The LaPorte County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash. Authorities are working to determine the cause of the collision and whether any factors such as driver error, vehicle malfunction, or environmental conditions played a role. The investigation is ongoing, and further information will be released as it becomes available.
Conclusion
The May 6 crash in LaPorte County serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers faced by students and school staff during transportation to and from school events. The New Prairie High School community, along with the broader LaPorte County area, continues to rally around those affected by the tragedy, offering support and solidarity during this difficult time.
Note: As of now, the names of all the victims have not been publicly released. The information provided is based on available reports and may be subject to change as the investigation progresses.
