Tragic Bus Crash Involving Minco High School Softball Team

News Summary

A bus crash involving Minco High School’s softball team has resulted in several injuries, with some players and coaches hospitalized. The incident, which happened when the bus swerved to avoid a deer, has deeply affected the community. Four individuals were ejected during the rollover, and the situation has raised concerns regarding safety measures on the bus. Local support is being rallied for victims, while classes resume after the tragedy.

Minco, Oklahoma – A tragic bus crash involving Minco High School’s softball team on Monday night has left several individuals injured, with some requiring hospitalization. The accident, which occurred shortly before 8 p.m. on State Highway 152 just east of Cogar, has shocked the close-knit community.

According to the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, the bus, driven by head softball coach Cody Schmidt, was carrying 18 players and coaches when it swerved to avoid a deer. The bus ended up striking the deer and rolling over once before landing on its wheels. Of the 18 occupants, four were ejected during the rollover. The incident resulted in seven injuries, including one adult male who is currently in critical condition with life-threatening injuries, and two juveniles also listed in critical condition. The identities of the injured have not been released by authorities.

As of September 9, 2025, several individuals remain hospitalized as a result of the crash. In addition to the critically injured, there are two adults and two students with non-serious injuries. Reports indicate that only Coach Schmidt was wearing a seatbelt at the time of the accident, while the bus was not equipped with seatbelts for the passengers, raising concerns about safety measures.

Minco School District Superintendent Kevin Sims expressed deep gratitude that there were no fatalities in the incident. In light of the circumstances, he announced that classes will resume on Wednesday, though homecoming events have been postponed. The homecoming parade is now rescheduled for October 2, with the game set for October 3. A prayer meeting has been organized for Tuesday evening on the softball field to support those affected and their families.

The local community is stepping up to offer its assistance to the victims. Donations to support the softball team can be made through the First National Bank and Trust in Minco. Furthermore, a Meal Train page has been initiated for Jordan Benge, another coach who is recovering in critical condition and will require multiple medical procedures in the aftermath of the crash.

Survivor Presley Bilderback, one of the players, shared her harrowing experience of the accident and emphasized her relief that there were no fatalities, highlighting the traumatic nature of the event for all involved. The emotional impact of the accident resonates deeply within the community, as families and friends rally to support each other in the aftermath of such a distressing event.

The Oklahoma Highway Patrol continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash as they gather more information. The community of Minco is united in its effort to recover from this tragic incident, aiming to provide support and healing for the injured and their families during this difficult time.

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Additional Resources

• KOCO News
• Wikipedia: School Bus Accident
• KFOR News
• Google Search: Minco school bus crash
• The Oklahoman
• Encyclopedia Britannica: School Bus Safety
• Hindustan Times
• Google News: Minco Bus Crash