UPDATE - 1:31 p.m.
HOUSTON – METRO said 15 individuals were involved in Saturday’s bus crash, and all are “safe and out of danger” as of Sunday afternoon.
There were no fatalities or life-threatening injuries, officials said.
METRO said they moved the damaged bus to a Bus Operating Facility where video will be downloaded for review.
The vehicle will remain out of service as the investigation progresses.
“We want to sincerely thank the METRO Police Department, Houston Police Department, Houston Fire Department, wrecking crews, and all emergency and support personnel who worked together through the night to rescue those involved, secure the scene, and safely clear traffic. Their coordination and professionalism helped ensure a swift response during a challenging situation,” a METRO spokesperson said.
“Our thoughts remain with everyone affected, and we appreciate the patience and cooperation of the public as this incident was resolved.”
ORIGINAL STORY
HOUSTON - A METRO bus crashed off an overpass in Houston Saturday afternoon, sending more than a dozen people to area hospitals after what witnesses describe as a terrifying incident on McGowen Street.
The crash occurred around 2:30 p.m. when a Route 54 METRO bus was struck from behind by another vehicle while crossing the McGowen Street overpass above Highway 288, according to METRO police. The impact sent the bus plummeting down an embankment.
Thirteen passengers were transported to local hospitals for medical evaluation. According to METRO PD, the bus operator is not claiming injury.
A witness waiting at a bus stop moments before the crash reported concerning behavior.
“Me and my daughter was actually sitting at the stop getting ready to get on this bus. And she was going really, really fast,” said Latafia Harris, who witnessed the incident.
Harris expressed gratitude for the near miss, stating, “I’m just shook. I’m traumatized at the same time, but I’m thankful because they could have been us.”
METRO Police are currently investigating the cause of the crash. While most injuries are reported as minor, authorities continue to piece together the sequence of events that led to the accident.
KPRC 2 News is working to learn more details as the investigation continues.
METRO says the scene is cleared, as of Sunday morning.
Editor’s Note: This story has been updated to reflect clarified information from METRO that the bus operator is not claiming injury.