4 children hospitalized, driver charged in Richmond Hill school bus crash

RICHMOND HILL, Ga. (WTOC) - [UPDATE 9:44 p.m.] The Georgia State Patrol (GSP) has released preliminary findings following a Monday afternoon crash involving a Bryan County school bus in Richmond Hill that sent several people to the hospital.

The crash occurred at approximately 3:47 p.m. on GA 144 eastbound near Cherry Street.

According to GSP Post 42 (Rincon), the school bus and a Mercedes SUV were traveling eastbound in the right lane approaching a railroad crossing. A Chevrolet Silverado was traveling in the left lane, passing both vehicles.

Investigators say the driver of the Mercedes attempted to change lanes, striking the front passenger fender of the Silverado. The driver of the Silverado then lost control of the truck and collided with the rear of the school bus.

The school bus was carrying 41 young students and a driver at the time of the collision.

GSP reports that eight children reported injuries, with four transported to Memorial Children’s Hospital of Savannah. The driver of the Silverado was also transported to Memorial Hospital to be treated for injuries.

The driver of the Mercedes was checked and released by EMS on the scene. She was charged with improper lane change and released.

[UPDATE] All eastbound lanes of Highway 144 (Ford Avenue) in Richmond Hill have reopened following an afternoon crash involving a school bus and another vehicle.

The crash happened at the intersection of Highway 144 and Cherry Street, across from the Sawmill Plaza.

Georgia State Patrol (GSP) confirmed that the two-vehicle collision involved a school bus. While some children on board were evaluated by medical personnel at the scene, officials confirmed that no serious injuries have been reported.

First responders cleared the area shortly before 6 p.m., though some debris remains near the roadway. GSP continues to investigate the cause of the crash.

[ORIGINAL STORY] All eastbound lanes of Highway 144 in Richmond Hill are closed between Ivey Street and Cherry Street following a crash.

Traffic is currently being detoured, and drivers are urged to avoid the area and seek alternate routes.

Georgia State Patrol confirmed it was vehicle collision involving a school bus. Officials told us some children were being examined by medical but no serious injuries have been reported.

This is a developing situation. We will provide updates as they become available.