School Bus Collides with Semi Truck

A school bus from Braden River Middle School reportedly collided with a semi truck at around 4:15 p.m. today. Reports are that 21 students were taken to area hospitals for treatment of what are thought to be minor injuries.

The accident happened on State Road 64 near 64th Street Court East. The crash scene was near the Wal-Mart. The Florida Highway Patrol is investigating and reviewing video of the accident.

State Road 64 was cleared and open to traffic, after being blocked for nearly two hours. News helicopters filmed the scene. Check back with Patch for updates.

Margi Nanney, a spokesperson for the schools, said that the students have non-life threatening injuries. The school bus was equipped with seatbelts.

The school bus driver was transported to the hospital with more serious injuries. The bus apparently rear-ended the semi, Nanney said.

The students were sent to three area hospitals: Blake Medical Center, Manatee Memorial and Lakewood Ranch. By 7:30 p.m., all the students taken to Manatee Memorial had been treated and sent home.

Parents who have immediate concerns about their children may call 941-650-8378. In the meantime, the school district is setting up an information center at Braden River High School for parents and will release another phone number shortly.