On Thursday, February 1, 2024, at approximately 4:15 p.m., Moorhead Police, Moorhead Fire, Sanford Ambulance, the Clay County Sheriff's Office, and the MN State Patrol responded to the approximate 2600 block of 34 Street South for a report of two contracted buses for the Moorhead Area School District being involved in a rear-end style crash. Three buses were in the inside lane traveling southbound when the middle bus changed lanes, as traffic was backing up for the approaching stop light, and the first bus had reduced speed due to traffic in front of them. The third bus had a delayed reaction time, could not stop, and struck the first bus. Initial reports indicate that the third bus driver may have been distracted by student behavior on the bus.
Students could exit the buses safely after the crash, and only minor injuries were reported. All students were transported back to Horizon Middle School for reunification with their guardians. The Moorhead School District has interior and exterior cameras on its fleet, and the State of MN will inspect both buses after repairs and before they are placed back into service. The crash is still under investigation.
Captain Deric Swenson, 218.299.5186
