COOLBAUGH TOWNSHIP, PA (MONROE COUNTY) – A horrific crash on I-380 southbound near mile marker 9.3 in Coolbaugh Township on the morning of July 25, 2025, has resulted in a mass casualty incident involving both a school bus and a tour bus. The crash, which occurred around 9:00 a.m., caused significant damage to both vehicles and left several individuals injured, prompting a massive response from emergency services.

The Incident: Chaos Unfolds on Interstate 380

According to initial reports from the scene, the collision occurred when the school bus, which was reportedly carrying students, collided with a tour bus. The impact caused the school bus to overturn, and emergency services quickly arrived at the scene to assist the victims.

Upon arriving, responders found a chaotic scene with injured individuals scattered across the crash site. Three individuals were ejected from the school bus during the collision. These victims, which included two adult males and a 13-year-old boy, sustained significant head injuries along with other trauma. Emergency medical personnel on-site were quick to assess the situation and immediately began providing medical attention to the victims.

In total, up to 30 patients were evaluated for potential injuries following the crash. Many of the victims were experiencing a range of injuries, from minor cuts and bruises to more severe trauma, including head injuries and broken bones. The scale of the emergency prompted a full mass casualty incident declaration, mobilizing resources from multiple agencies.

Emergency Response: A Coordinated Effort

The response to the crash involved an extensive mobilization of emergency services from both Monroe and Lackawanna Counties, as well as neighboring areas. Multiple EMS units responded quickly, including:

• Monroe County Stations 25 and 47

• EMS units 11 Medic 1, 1122, 1129, 1103, 1408, 921

• Lackawanna County EMS: 55-9, Medic 16-3, and Mobile 16-2.

Emergency crews worked diligently to secure the area, provide medical treatment on-site, and prepare patients for transport to nearby hospitals.

The severity of the crash initially led authorities to place a medevac helicopter on standby to assist in the transport of critically injured victims. However, after assessing the situation, the helicopter was canceled, and all patients were instead transported by ground ambulance to nearby hospitals for further care. Thankfully, none of the injuries appeared to be immediately life-threatening, but the trauma from the crash and the overturning of the school bus raised significant concern.

The southbound lanes of I-380 were temporarily shut down while emergency crews worked to clear the wreckage and safely transport the victims. The shutdown caused significant traffic delays for commuters and drivers in the area, but safety was the priority while the crash site was cleared.

The Victims: Community Members Affected by the Tragedy

The identities of the victims and passengers have not been fully disclosed, though it is known that a mix of students and adults were involved in the incident. The 13-year-old boy and the adult male victims were all transported to hospitals for emergency treatment. Their exact condition is currently unknown, but officials have stated that the head injuries sustained by the victims were of particular concern.

It is unclear whether the students on the school bus were part of a field trip or a routine school transport, but the crash has deeply impacted the local community. Families of the injured are anxiously awaiting more information about the condition of their loved ones, and local authorities have pledged to provide updates as soon as possible.

The school district has not yet issued a public statement about the incident, but many local residents have taken to social media to express their concern for the victims. The community of Coolbaugh Township and surrounding areas have also begun organizing efforts to provide support to the families involved in the crash, offering emotional and financial assistance where possible.

Investigation: Cause of the Collision Under Review

The Pennsylvania State Police have taken the lead in investigating the cause of the crash. Although the specifics remain unclear, they have confirmed that they are actively working to piece together the events that led to the crash. Initial reports suggest that the school bus may have lost control, but no official findings have been released at this time.

State Police have stated that they will be reviewing witness statements, dashcam footage (if available), and other evidence, such as the condition of the vehicles involved, to determine the exact sequence of events. They are also examining whether weather, road conditions, or mechanical failure played any role in the crash.

Given the scale of the incident and the significant number of people involved, investigators are treating the situation with the utmost urgency to ensure that all facts are accurately uncovered. At this stage, authorities are asking for the public’s help in providing any information related to the incident. Individuals who may have witnessed the crash or have relevant information are encouraged to come forward.

Community Support: Local Efforts to Assist

Following the mass casualty incident, several local organizations have mobilized to support the victims and their families. Community members are coming together to offer emotional support, and a fundraiser has been started to help cover medical and transportation costs for the victims. The local community is showing solidarity in the aftermath of the tragedy, with many offering prayers and support for those affected.

In addition to the emotional and financial support, local counseling services have been set up for students and families impacted by the accident. The school district and local community centers are coordinating with law enforcement and first responders to provide resources for families who need assistance during this difficult time.

Conclusion: A Day of Tragedy and Resilience

The crash on I-380 in Coolbaugh Township has shaken the community, but it has also revealed the resilience of local first responders, medical personnel, and citizens who are coming together to support the victims. While the cause of the crash remains under investigation, the focus is now on recovery and providing the necessary resources for the affected families.

As the investigation continues and details emerge, the community’s thoughts are with the victims and their families. The outpouring of love, support, and compassion in the wake of the incident serves as a reminder of the strength that can emerge from tragedy. Authorities have pledged to keep the public informed as new information becomes available, and they continue to investigate the circumstances of this devastating event.

As the community rallies around the victims, their families, and those affected by this terrible incident, the resilience and compassion of Coolbaugh Township serve as a beacon of hope during a time of deep sorrow.