Police: Child, driver die in Indy school bus crash

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) - One child and a school bus driver died Monday morning and a dozen more people were injured after their bus struck a bridge support beam on the east side of Indianapolis.

The crash happened around 7:43 a.m. in the 900 block of Emerson Avenue. In addition to the two dead, Indianapolis Fire Department officials say two people were critically hurt and 10 others are considered "walking wounded." Eight children were taken to Wishard Memorial Hospital and two were taken to Riley Hospital for Children at IU Health.

Officials said one child was stuck under the front wheel of the bus for some time, but crews were able to remove the child, who was still alive Monday morning.

The bus involved was from Indianapolis Lighthouse Charter School, and officials were urging parents to call the school with any questions. The number is 317-351-1534. As many as 50 students may have been on the bus at the time of the crash. They ranged in age from 5 to 16 years old.

One witness said she was on her way to work, headed northbound on Emerson Avenue, when she came upon the crash.

"I couldn't figure out what it was that was under the bridge," said Tami Presley. "As I was pulling under I just see kids just start jumping off."

Presley said she heard screaming and crying and saw many kids with bloody noses.

"I just tried to mostly console the children," Presley said.