Iowa Lakes Community College Mourns Loss of Baseball Player After Tragic Bus Crash

College provides update on recovery efforts for injured players and driver

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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Iowa Lakes Community College has provided an update on the recovery of its baseball team following a tragic bus crash that resulted in the death of 19-year-old player Carter Johnson and injuries to 32 others. Authorities reported the bus driver lost control on a curve, causing the vehicle to roll off the road. While one player and the bus driver remain hospitalized, other team members continue to recover. The college has been honoring Johnson through social media tributes, including a video showcasing his thoughtful and humble nature.

Why it matters

The bus crash has devastated the Iowa Lakes community, highlighting the risks student-athletes face during team travel and the importance of safety protocols. The college's response in supporting affected students and families will be closely watched as an example of how institutions can navigate such tragic circumstances.

The details

The bus crash occurred last Wednesday on Highway 4 between Jolley and Twin Lakes. Authorities reported the bus driver lost control on a curve, causing the vehicle to roll off the road. 19-year-old Carter Johnson was killed in the incident, while 32 others were injured. On Friday, Iowa Lakes said one player and the bus driver remain hospitalized, while other team members continue to recover.

  • The bus crash occurred last Wednesday on Highway 4 between Jolley and Twin Lakes.
  • Carter Johnson was laid to rest this week in his hometown of Rapid City, South Dakota.
  • Iowa Lakes provided an update on the recovery efforts on Friday.

The players

Carter Johnson

A 19-year-old Iowa Lakes Community College baseball player who was killed in the bus crash.

Iowa Lakes Community College

The community college that the baseball team represents and which has been providing support and tributes to the affected students and families.

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What they’re saying

“My name is Carter Johnson, I'm in the Iowa Lakes criminal justice program.”

— Carter Johnson (Student testimonial video)

“My favorite part of Iowa Lakes is the community. A lot of people here are really nice; small town so a lot of people know each other. Just a great town to live in.”

— Carter Johnson (Student testimonial video)

“Faculty, staff, coaches, and support teams continue to walk alongside them, providing care, flexibility, and resources in the days ahead.”

— Iowa Lakes Community College (College statement)

What’s next

The college has emphasized its ongoing commitment to supporting the affected students and families, indicating that faculty, staff, coaches, and support teams will continue to provide care, flexibility, and resources in the days ahead.

The takeaway

The tragic bus crash has devastated the Iowa Lakes community, highlighting the risks student-athletes face during team travel and the importance of safety protocols. The college's response in honoring the memory of Carter Johnson and supporting the affected students and families will be closely watched as an example of how institutions can navigate such heartbreaking circumstances with compassion and care.