KOKOMO, Ind. — A road construction worker died Monday afternoon when a truck collided with a school bus carrying eight children, according to Indiana State Police.
Aaron M. Esparza, 31, of Logansport, was pronounced dead at the scene of the crash, which occurred shortly before 3:30 p.m. on U.S. 35/State Road 22 at Howard County Road 400 East, located a few miles east of Kokomo.
Authorities reported that Esparza was directing traffic at the intersection when a gray 2008 Dodge Ram, driven by Rolland Brent McQuiston, 72, of Windfall, struck the driver's side of a yellow 2018 Bluebird School Bus operated by Tara D. Lopez, 35, of Kokomo. The bus had been traveling north on County Road 400 East and was crossing State Road 22 when the collision occurred.
Lopez sustained minor injuries and received treatment at the scene. No injuries were reported among the eight children on board.
Indiana State Police stated that initial investigations indicate that neither alcohol nor narcotics are suspected factors in the crash.
Northwestern School Corporation expressed their condolences, highlighting the emotional distress for all involved and confirming that counseling services are being offered to affected students and staff.
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are cooperating fully with law enforcement. No additional details are available at this time.