Bus Crash Kills 1, Injures Dozens of Community College Baseball Players

The charter bus overturned in a ditch on an Iowa highway, according to state authorities.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A charter bus carrying members of an Iowa community college baseball team crashed on Wednesday, killing one person and injuring dozens of others. The bus went off the road and overturned in a ditch on Iowa Highway 4 near Twin Lakes, according to the Iowa State Patrol. There were 33 people on the bus, which was the only vehicle involved in the incident.

Why it matters

Tragic bus crashes involving student athletes are devastating events that impact entire communities. This incident raises questions about the safety of charter bus transportation and the need for increased oversight and regulations to prevent such accidents in the future.

The details

The Iowa Lakes Community College charter bus crashed shortly after 11 a.m. local time. All occupants on the bus sustained minor to serious injuries, and several were transported to area hospitals by Life Flight helicopters and ambulances. The cause of the crash remains under investigation by state authorities.

  • The incident occurred on Wednesday, February 11, 2026 shortly after 11 a.m. local time.

The players

Iowa Lakes Community College

A community college in Iowa whose baseball team was involved in the fatal bus crash.

North Arkansas College Pioneer Athletics

The college's baseball team that Iowa Lakes was traveling to play when the crash occurred.

Iowa State Patrol

The state law enforcement agency investigating the cause of the bus crash.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The safety and well-being of our students and staff is our highest priority.”

— Iowa Lakes Community College (Statement)

“We ask our entire community to please lift up everyone involved, their families, and the entire Iowa Lakes community in prayer during this difficult time.”

— North Arkansas College Pioneer Athletics (Social media statement)

What’s next

State authorities are continuing to investigate the cause of the bus crash and will work to determine if any safety improvements or policy changes are needed to prevent similar incidents in the future.

The takeaway

This tragic bus crash involving a community college baseball team is a devastating reminder of the importance of transportation safety, especially when it comes to student athletes traveling to competitions. The incident has shaken the local community and raised broader questions about oversight and regulations around charter bus operations.