South Carolina Bus Crash Kills Student, Spurs Debate

A school bus carrying Pine Ridge Middle School students overturned on I-77 in Chester County, South Carolina, after a tire blowout caused it to strike a guardrail while returning from a field trip. The crash resulted in the death of 13-year-old Jose Maria Gonzales Linares and injured more than 20 others, with several in critical condition. Students and witnesses described scenes of chaos as they escaped the wreckage and helped each other, while parents and emergency responders rushed to the scene. The incident has renewed debate about the lack of seat belts on most South Carolina school buses, with only one state-owned bus meeting federal requirements for smaller vehicles. Governor Henry McMaster and local officials offered condolences and support, and grief counseling services were provided at the school. The community continues to mourn and seek ways to support those affected by the tragedy.