Marion, IL – A Johnston City school bus carrying about 30 students was struck by an SUV Monday morning, September 22, 2025, leading to minor injuries and precautionary hospital evaluations, according to the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office.
The crash occurred around 7:25 a.m. on Illinois Route 37 near Foxcroft Drive as the bus was stopped to make a left turn. Deputies reported the vehicle was hit by a black Nissan SUV driven by Michael Redmon of Pittsburg, Illinois. Road conditions were slick at the time due to heavy rain.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, several children were transported by ambulance or with their parents to nearby hospitals for evaluation of minor injuries. Johnston City School Superintendent Josh Pietrantoni and other school officials responded to the scene along with fire and EMS crews.
Sheriff Jeff Diederich credited first responders and school staff for their quick action. “We are fortunate that this morning’s accident, which occurred amid challenging inclement weather conditions, resulted only in minor injuries,” he said.
The driver of the SUV was cited for failure to reduce speed to avoid an accident. Authorities stated the incident remains under investigation and further enforcement action may follow.
Parents and guardians of all students involved were contacted directly by school officials.
