News Summary
An investigation into a tragic school bus accident in Chester reveals alarming previous tire problems. The bus, part of Lexington School District Two, experienced a tire blowout that led to the death of a student and injuries to others. Experts underscore the need for a thorough probe into the bus’s tire maintenance history, raising concerns about safety practices and adherence to federal regulations. The district remains tight-lipped while the investigation unfolds, highlighting ongoing transportation safety issues for students.
Chester, South Carolina – An investigation into a tragic school bus accident on April 17, 2025, has revealed a concerning history of tire issues that preceded the crash, which resulted in the fatality of 13-year-old Jose Maria Gonzales Linares and left several others injured. The bus, part of Lexington School District Two, was returning from a field trip to Charlotte, North Carolina, when it experienced a tire blowout that led to a collision with a guardrail and subsequent overturning.
According to the bus driver, who provided a signed statement, he conducted a pre-trip inspection and found all tires to be “safe for travel.” However, just before the crash occurred on Interstate 77 in Chester County, the driver reported a sudden “boom” coming from the passenger side of the bus, shortly before losing control.
Tire failure expert Matt Wetherington examined the driver’s account and suggested that the description of the incident is indicative of potential tire tread separation, which can occur due to either manufacturing defects or inadequate maintenance practices. He underscored the necessity for a thorough investigation into the bus’s tire maintenance records and any possible design defects that may have contributed to the incident.
Details of the Incident
At the time of the crash, the bus was carrying three adults and 35 students. Maintenance records reveal that the bus, which was manufactured in December 2019, had traveled less than 21,000 miles as of December 2024. However, there is no evidence in the records that the front passenger tire was replaced, even though it might have been nearing the end of its typical six-year lifespan. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recommends replacing tires after six years of use to ensure safety.
Previous Tire Issues
The bus had a noted history of tire-related problems. In June 2023, it experienced a blowout while transporting a high school football team, raising alarms about the reliability of its tire maintenance. Just two weeks prior to the fatal incident, the same bus suffered another blowout caused by a metal rod embedded in the sidewall of the tire.
Regulatory Concerns
Federal regulations prohibit the use of regrooved, recapped, or retreaded tires on the front wheels of buses. This adds a layer of scrutiny to the maintenance practices undertaken by Lexington School District Two, as there are indications that compliance with this regulation may be in question.
Ongoing Investigation
In light of the circumstances surrounding the tragedy, the Lexington School District Two has refrained from making further comments while the investigation is ongoing. The bus driver’s detailed account, which was documented in a handwritten letter submitted to the district four days after the accident, is likely a significant component of the inquiry.
In conclusion, while the investigation continues, the incident brings to the forefront critical concerns regarding the condition and maintenance history of school buses within the district, as well as the systemic issues surrounding transportation safety for students.
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Additional Resources
- WISTV: Records of Lexington County school bus involved in deadly crash had history of problems
- ABC Columbia: Bus driver gives his version of Chester County April crash
- WBTV: South Carolina school bus had history of tire problems before deadly crash
- Wikipedia: School Bus Safety
- Google Search: School Bus Safety Regulations
Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON WRITER
The LEXINGTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELexington.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Lexington, Fayette County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Woodland Art Fair, Crave Food and Music Festival, and Railbird Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like Commerce Lexington and Blue Grass Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in education, manufacturing, and technology that power the local economy such as University of Kentucky, Toyota Motor Manufacturing, and Lexmark. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBowlingGreen.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.
