HAWKINS COUNTY, Tenn. — Update (1:30 p.m.): Emergency crews responded to a deadly school bus crash in Hawkins County.
According to the Tennessee Highway Patrol, a pick-up hit the bus on State Route 70 at Willow Road around 7:30 a.m. TDOT said access to the highway was closed as crews responded.
Hawkins County Schools said the crash involved Bus 109 and said it had notified the parents of students who were on the bus.
According to THP's preliminary crash report, a 55-year-old bus driver, Aleita Gladson, died in the crash. Two children were on the bus and were not seriously hurt, according to THP. Matt Hixson, Hawkins County's director of schools, said the children were treated for minor injuries.
"I am heartbroken to report Aleita Gladson has passed away," Hixson said. "Aleita was a longtime and valued Hawkins County Schools team member, as a bus driver, as a secretary, and as assistant director within our Transportation Department. Our prayers go out to her family, and we would ask that all those within our Hawkins County community keep Aleita’s family in your prayers as well."
THP said an 18-year-old was driving a pick-up truck south on SR 70 when it went into the northbound lane and crashed into the bus. Troopers said the 18-year-old could face charges pending the outcome of the investigation.
"We pray too for the other driver involved in this accident," Hixson said. "I will take a moment here as well to provide our heartfelt thanks to the many first responders who rushed to the accident scene to care for all those involved. At this time though, out of respect for all of the people and families affected by this tragic accident, neither I nor Hawkins County Schools will have any further comment."
Editor's Note: THP initially said in its report the bus driver was 29 years old, but later sent a correction saying they were 55.