From a media release from the Illinois State Police Troop 5– The Illinois State Police (ISP) is investigating a fatal crash involving a passenger car and a school bus. This morning, at approximately 8:38 a.m., Troopers responded to a crash on IL Route 9 at Ford County 1000E Road near Gibson City. Preliminary information indicates passenger car traveling on 1000E Road failed to yield and entered IL Route 9 in front of the school bus, causing the bus to hit the car.
One occupant from the passenger car has been confirmed deceased, and three additional occupants sustained injuries. The Hoopeston School District bus was transporting 20 students on the Hoopeston Middle School softball team. Although all students on the bus were taken to area hospitals, initial reports do not indicate any serious injuries.
Traffic near the intersection of IL Route 9 and 1000E Road will remain closed until further notice. Please seek an alternative route of travel. This is an active investigation, and no additional information is available. ISP will release additional information when available.