CALHOUN COUNTY IOWA, one person has died and multiple others were injured after a bus carrying members of the Iowa Lakes Community College baseball team rolled over on Highway 4, according to the Iowa State Patrol.
Officials identified the victim as 19-year-old Tater Johnson of Rapid City, South Dakota.
The crash occurred at approximately 11:06 a.m. when the Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office received several 911 calls reporting that a college-operated bus had left the roadway and overturned. A state trooper arrived at the scene within minutes, according to the Calhoun County Emergency Management Agency.
Preliminary information indicates the bus veered off the road and overturned into a ditch. Authorities confirmed that no other vehicles were involved.
A total of 33 people were on board at the time of the crash, and officials said all occupants were accounted for.
Due to the number of individuals involved, emergency responders declared a Mass Casualty Incident, prompting a coordinated response from local fire departments, emergency medical services, and law enforcement agencies.
Thirty-two passengers were evaluated at the scene and transported to area hospitals. Injuries ranged from minor to serious, and several medical helicopters were used to transport critically injured patients.
Officials clarified that six occupants traveling in a separate Iowa Lakes van were not involved in the crash.
Iowa Lakes Community College confirmed that members of its baseball team were aboard the bus. The team was traveling to Arkansas for a scheduled game against the North Arkansas Pioneers.
In a statement, the college said it would not release additional names at this time but emphasized that leaders are working closely with authorities and communicating directly with families.
“The safety and well-being of our students and staff remain our highest priority,” the statement said. “The College is actively supporting those affected.”
Highway 4 was temporarily closed in both directions just north of the Twin Lakes area as emergency crews treated victims and secured the scene.
The Iowa State Patrol is investigating the cause of the crash.
U.S. Rep. Randy Feenstra expressed concern following the incident and thanked first responders and medical personnel for their swift response.
The North Arkansas Pioneers also issued a statement offering support to those affected and their families.
Authorities said additional updates will be released as the investigation continues.
