Crash Occurs During Morning Commute
A fatal traffic crash involving a school bus and a passenger vehicle occurred Wednesday morning, January 15, 2026, in Manhattan, Illinois. Authorities said the collision happened near the intersection of Manhattan-Monee Road and Kankakee Street during the morning commute hours.
Initial reports place the time of the crash at approximately 8:17 a.m., though some accounts list the incident occurring shortly after, around 8:25 a.m. Investigators have not yet confirmed the exact minute but stated the crash took place during a busy period when students were being transported to school.
Emergency crews responded quickly to the scene after receiving reports of a serious head-on collision involving a school bus from Manhattan School District 114.
Driver of Passenger Vehicle Pronounced Dead
Authorities confirmed that the driver of the passenger vehicle involved in the crash died as a result of the collision. The individual was pronounced deceased at the scene or shortly afterward, according to officials.
The identity of the driver has not been released, pending notification of family members. No additional information has been provided about the vehicle or the circumstances that led to the two vehicles colliding.
Officials have not indicated whether weather, road conditions, or other external factors may have played a role. Those details are expected to be addressed once the investigation is further along.
Students and Bus Driver Transported as Precaution
At the time of the crash, the school bus was carrying ten students along with the bus driver. Authorities said all occupants of the bus were transported to nearby hospitals for medical evaluation.
Officials emphasized that the hospital visits were primarily precautionary due to the severity of the crash. No life-threatening or major injuries were reported among the students or the bus driver.
School district representatives have not released student names or specific medical details, citing privacy concerns. Families were notified, and school officials are expected to provide support resources as needed.
Illinois State Police Leading Investigation
The Illinois State Police are handling the investigation into the crash. Troopers are working to determine how the collision occurred and whether any contributing factors were involved.
As part of the investigation, authorities are expected to review vehicle positions, roadway evidence, and any available witness statements. Officials have not announced whether citations or charges are being considered at this stage.
Traffic in the area was temporarily impacted while emergency crews responded and investigators examined the scene. Roads were later reopened once it was deemed safe.
Community Impact and Ongoing Updates
The incident has drawn attention from the local community, particularly due to the involvement of a school bus and students. Officials have urged drivers to use caution in the area as the investigation continues.
Authorities stated that additional information will be released once confirmed. Until then, officials are asking the public to avoid speculation and allow investigators time to complete their work.
Updates are expected as Illinois State Police continue to review the circumstances surrounding the crash and work to provide clarity on what led to the fatal collision.
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