School bus carrying football team crashes near Pittsburgh; at least 21 students hospitalized

preCharge News PENNSYLVANIA — The Aliquippa Jr. High School football team was involved in a bus crash on Saturday morning.

A parent confirmed to KDKA-TV’s Jessica Riley that the team was on the bus at the time of the crash.

Aliquippa Mayor Dwan Walker later confirmed to KDKA-TV that the Aliquippa Junior High football team was on its way to a game against Pine-Richland at 11 a.m. when the crash occurred.

Economy Police Chief Michael O’Brien says the bus was carrying 28 people, including 25 children, with more than 20 going to area hospitals.

Their conditions remain unknown as of Saturday evening.

The Aliquippa superintendent said that he was going to the hospital to check on the students.

A source close to the investigation told KDKA-TV that they believed all were off the bus when first responders arrived, with EMS crews transporting one by air and others by ambulance to UPMC Children’s, Allegheny General and Sewickley hospitals. Others went by private vehicles.

The same source reported that the crash occurred when the bus rounded a bend and veered off the road, striking a hillside.

They say that caused the vehicle to briefly tip before landing upright. In the process, at one point, the bus struck a utility pole, knocking down live wires, which some players had to get around as they exited the vehicle.

Various agencies responded from both Beaver and Allegheny counties.

Mayor Walker says it’s time for everyone to rally around those impacted.

“When something like this happens to our babies, everybody should respond without question,” the mayor said. “I know the city of Aliquippa is grateful. I know the families are grateful. We are eternally grateful.”

The crash remains under investigation.

A vigil is set to be held at the Plan 12 playground at 7 p.m. Saturday.

Gov. Josh Shapiro responds to the crash

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro said Saturday afternoon in a statement that he had spoken to Mayor Walker, while offering his administration’s full support as authorities continue to investigate the crash.

“Football brings the Aliquippa community together – and I know those who prepared to cheer on their team today are already stepping in to care for their neighbors and check in on the families affected,” Gov. Shapiro said. “The entire community is in our thoughts today. Please join Lori and me in praying for the team, their parents, their coaches, and everyone rallying behind them.”