UPDATE 11:55 A.M.
Valdosta Police Department issued the following update regarding this deadly crash:
"Our Traffic Unit is currently investigating a fatality traffic accident that occurred this morning. Our prayers go out to everyone involved.
On April 12, 2024, at approximately 6:38 am., Valdosta Police Officers, Valdosta Fire Fighters, and Emergency Medical Services Personnel responded to the 1000 block of South Patterson Street, after numerous citizens called E911 to report a traffic accident. The callers reported that the traffic accident involved a Valdosta City School bus and a pickup truck. When first responders arrived at the accident, they observed a pickup truck partially underneath the side of the school bus.
The driver of the pickup truck, an 80-year-old male, was pronounced deceased at the scene. The school bus had six students on the bus at the time of the accident, and no injuries were reported from anyone on the bus.
The accident is currently under investigation by the Valdosta Police Department Traffic Unit.
“Our prayers go out to everyone involved or affected by this terrible accident. We appreciate the assistance from the Lowndes County Sheriff’s Office and the Georgia Department of Motor Carrier Compliance.” Said Chief Leslie Manahan.
If anyone has any information on this case, we are asking that you contact the Valdosta Police Department Traffic Unit at 229-242-2606, the crime tip line at 229-293-3091, or file a tip online at www.valdostacity.com/police-department."
UPDATE 9:45 A.M.
Valdosta neighborhood reporter, Malia Thomas went to the scene of the crash. She found a pick up truck that had apparently crashed into the side of the school bus.
The crash took place at the intersection of South Lee Street and South Patterson Street.
ABC 27's Malia Thomas is working to confirm how the crash happened.
Watch Malia's Instagram reel from the scene of the crash below:
ORIGINAL STORY:
Valdosta City Schools released the following statement regarding a school bus crash Friday morning:
"Friday, April 12, 2024, Valdosta City Schools' bus 12-5 was involved in an accident near South Patterson Street. At the time of the accident there were only a few students on the bus. Those students are accounted for and have been transported to their school for further evaluation. The accident is currently under investigation by the Valdosta Police Department."
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
