UPDATE: One dead after crash involving school bus on NC-53

PENDER COUNTY, NC (WWAY) — According to Pender County Schools a school bus was involved in a vehicle crash on NC Highway 53 in the Maple Hill area. There were 26 students and one driver on board at the time of the incident according to the state trooper.

The school bus was driving west on NC Highway 53 when a car hit it head on from the Eastbound Lane. NC State Highway Patrol confirmed the driver of the car involved in the crash has died. The name of the victim has not been released at this time.

There are currently no major injuries to students or staff reported and students were transported to Pender Memorial Hospital for evaluation out of caution. 

The state trooper said 23 out of the 26 students on board and the bus driver suffered minor injuries.

First Sergeant Jason Casteen said he thinks fatigue and speed could be factors in the crash.

“At this time, we believe that speed and possibly fatigue are factors of the collision,” Casteen said.

NC Highway 53 between Shaw highway and Highway 50 is closed. Traffic delays are expected and there will be a detour down Old Maple Hill Road.

The investigation is still ongoing.