EPHRAIM, Utah — One person was killed and 20 others were injured after a pickup truck collided with two school buses Friday night near Ephraim.
The two school buses were with Wasatch Academy, a college-preparatory boarding school based in Mt. Pleasant.
The Utah Highway Patrol reported the crash happened around 8:30 p.m. on US-89, about five miles north of Ephraim. The truck was heading southbound when it drifted into the northbound lane, colliding with two buses carrying a combined total of 36 students and two drivers.
The pickup grazed the first bus, carrying 19 students, then struck the second bus head-on. The 43-year-old male driver of the truck, identified as Melvin Beckstead, died at the scene. The 19 students and the driver inside the second bus were transported to a nearby hospital with various injuries, with two in critical condition.
In an update Monday, school officials announced that all the students have been released from the hospital. One teacher is still in the hospital but is in stable condition.
"The school has activated trauma support services, adjusted academic schedules, and is prioritizing student safety, care, and the well-being of our community," Wasatch Academy said in an announcement Saturday afternoon. They also confirmed that no students or faculty died.
In a statement posted to Facebook, the city of Mt. Pleasant extended condolences to the Wasatch Academy community.
"We are holding everyone involved close in our hearts and wishing for comfort, strength, and healing during this difficult time," the statement reads in part. "Our community stands with you and all involved."
Utah Highway Patrol says fatigued driving is suspected as the cause of the crash.
