WHEATLAND, Iowa — An elementary student in the Calamus-Wheatland Community School District was airlifted to Iowa City after being hit by a car at a school bus stop Monday morning, according to the sheriff's office.
The Clinton County Sheriff's Office said it happened around 7:50 a.m. along Highway 30 at 158th Avenue, approximately two miles west of Calamus.
A preliminary investigation showed a Calamus-Wheatland school bus was stopped in the eastbound lane of Highway 30 to make a pickup. A car traveling west struck the child in the highway's westbound lane. They were airlifted to Iowa City for treatment.
The school district released a statement on Monday shortly after the incident. Here's what it said:
Today, an elementary student was involved in a pedestrian accident at a bus stop. The incident occurred at approximately 7:50 this morning.
Emergency services responded promptly, and the student was transported to for medical treatment. The extent of their injuries is currently being assessed. Our thoughts are with the student and their family during this challenging time.
Local authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the accident. Calamus-Wheatland CSD is working closely with local authorities to support the investigation and ensure the safety of all students. Counseling and support services are available to students, staff, and families affected by this incident.
We appreciate the swift response of emergency services and the ongoing support of the community during this difficult time. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
Sincerely,
Shane Knoche
Ashley Kelting
Andrea Howard
In most cases, drivers are not allowed to pass a stopped school bus in Iowa. The only time a driver can pass a school bus that is stopped with its stop arm extended is if the driver is headed in the opposite direction of the bus on a four-lane road. The Iowa Department of Transportation outlines when drivers are supposed to stop for school buses in the state, including photos of each scenario.
