‘All of South Carolina is with you.’ Governor, others react to fatal school bus crash
State and local leaders across South Carolina are offering their condolences and support after a school bus crash on Thursday killed a student and injured others.
The bus, along with two others, were traveling back to the Midlands following a field trip near Charlotte, a news release said. A tire blew on the bus causing it to crash and flip over while transporting students and three adults. The two other buses were not involved in the accident, according to the district.
Gov. Henry McMaster
“Today’s school bus accident in Chester County is a tragedy no family should ever have to endure,” McMaster wrote on X. “Peggy and I are heartbroken. Please join us in praying for the victim, their family, a speedy recovery for those injured, and the entire Lexington Two community. All of South Carolina is with you.”
State Superintendent Ellen Weaver
“Our hearts are broken by the tragic bus accident in Chester County this afternoon,” Weaver said in a statement released Thursday. “Our entire state is mourning alongside the Pine Ridge Middle School families, friends, classmates, and educators. Please join me in praying for the Lexington Two community.”
U.S. Rep. Joe Wilson
“My thoughts and prayers go out to the families and students affected by the Pine Ridge Middle School bus accident,” the congressman wrote on X.
Attorney General Alan Wilson
“Devastated to hear about the school bus crash in Chester County,” Wilson wrote on X. “My heart goes out to the students, families, and the entire Pine Ridge Middle School community. South Carolina is praying for you.”
Lexington County Sheriff’s Department
“Sheriff (Jay) Koon, along with the entire Lexington County Sheriff’s Department, extend our deepest condolences to the students, families, faculty and SRO Herbert Brown of Pine Ridge Middle School,” the sheriff’s office wrote on Facebook. “Our hearts ache with yours during this difficult time. Please join us in surrounding everyone affected with love, strength and continued prayers.”
Sen. Russell Ott, D-Calhoun
“Our Pine Ridge Middle School family experienced a tragedy today,” Ott said on social media. “Families in our community are hurting and there are no words that will be able to ease that pain. I want to thank first responders at the scene and everyone who has come together to ensure parents could be unified with their children quickly and safely. As we continue to sort through the details of the accident be assured all involved are working to make sure every resource is available to those affected.”
Sen. Tameika Isaac Devine, D-Richland
“Praying for all the students and teachers involved in the Lexington County School District 2 school bus crash,” Isaac Devinee wrote on X.
Rep. Micah Caskey, R-Lexington
“Absolutely heartbreaking,” Caskey wrote on X.
Town of Pine Ridge
“Thoughts and prayers for the families, the school and our community,” the town wrote on Facebook. “Together we will stand strong with Pine Ridge Middle School.”
Pine Ridge Police Department
“Our hearts are heavy as we think of the students, their families, the school community, and all those affected by this terrible tragedy,” the department wrote on Facebook. “Please take a moment to lift them all in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. Pine Ridge Police Department is on site at Pine Ridge Middle School to assist families in any way we can. We stand in support of everyone affected and extend our deepest sympathies and respect.”
City of Cayce
“Please join our elected officials, staff and our community in lifting up the Pine Ridge Middle School Students and staff involved in the bus accident on Interstate 77,” the city wrote on Facebook.
The South Carolina Education Association
“The South Carolina Education Association is heartbroken to learn of the tragic accident on I-77 that has impacted the children, families, and school employees of Lexington Two. During this incredibly difficult time, we want to extend our deepest condolences and support to everyone affected,” the association posted on social media. “We understand that words cannot ease the pain, but please know that we stand with you in solidarity and support.”
Charter Institute at Erskine
“The Charter Institute at Erskine is heartbroken to learn about the Pine Ridge Middle School bus accident,” the institute wrote on Facebook. “We send our thoughts and prayers to everyone involved and the entire Pine Ridge community.”
This story was originally published April 18, 2025 at 9:50 AM.
