2 Students Killed, 7 Injured in Tennessee School Bus Crash

Kenwood Middle School students were on a field trip when the accident occurred.

Mar. 28, 2026 at 2:50pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a damaged school bus tire tread against a pitch-black background, conveying the sudden and devastating impact of the crash through a stark, gritty visual style.The aftermath of a tragic school bus crash that claimed the lives of two students and injured several others highlights the need for heightened transportation safety measures.Jackson Today

A school bus carrying 25 students and 5 adults from Kenwood Middle School in Clarksville, Tennessee was involved in a crash with a TDOT dump truck and a Chevrolet Trailblazer on Highway 70 in Carroll County. The crash resulted in the deaths of 2 students and injuries to at least 7 other people, who were airlifted to hospitals across the state.

Why it matters

School field trips are meant to be educational and enriching experiences for students, but this tragic accident highlights the risks involved and the need for heightened safety measures to protect children during transportation. The crash has devastated the Kenwood Middle School community and raised questions about the causes and circumstances surrounding the incident.

The details

According to the Tennessee Highway Patrol, the crash occurred around noon on Friday and involved a TDOT dump truck, a Chevrolet Trailblazer, and the school bus carrying the Kenwood Middle School students and adults. The cause of the crash is still under investigation, but authorities have described it as a "parent's worst nightmare." At least 7 people were airlifted to hospitals in Memphis and Nashville, while 19 others were evaluated and released from a local hospital.

  • The crash happened around noon on Friday, March 28, 2026.
  • The school bus was headed to Jackson, Tennessee to participate in the Toyota Hub City Grand Prix Greenpower USA race.

The players

Kenwood Middle School

A middle school in Clarksville, Tennessee whose students were involved in the fatal bus crash.

Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT)

The state agency whose dump truck was involved in the crash with the school bus.

Karen Miller

The principal of Kenwood Middle School, who shared a message with families about the tragedy and the availability of counselors for students.

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What they’re saying

“Please continue to pray with us for our students, families, faculty, and staff. I am grateful for the strength of our Kenwood community, and I trust we will all support each other during this difficult time.”

— Karen Miller, Principal, Kenwood Middle School

“This crash is a parent's worst nightmare.”

— Maj. Travis Plotzer, Spokesperson, Tennessee Highway Patrol

What’s next

The Tennessee Highway Patrol is continuing its investigation into the cause of the crash. The school district has said counselors will be available for students starting on Monday as they grieve the loss of their classmates.

The takeaway

This tragic accident underscores the importance of stringent safety protocols and oversight when transporting students on field trips. It has left the Kenwood Middle School community devastated and will likely prompt renewed discussions about improving transportation safety for school-related activities.