What went wrong on the Greyhound? Deadly crash in Tennessee shocks the nation
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For many Americans, especially those who remember the heyday of cross-country travel, the Greyhound bus is an icon—a symbol of affordable adventure, family visits, and the open road.
But on the evening of May 26th, that symbol was marred by tragedy when a Greyhound bus traveling from Memphis to Nashville crashed on Highway 70 East in Madison County, Tennessee, near Jackson.
The result: two lives lost and 39 people injured, a sobering reminder that even the most familiar journeys can take a devastating turn.
What Happened on Highway 70?
The details are still emerging, but here’s what we know so far. At approximately 6:48 pm, a collision occurred involving the Greyhound bus and at least one other passenger vehicle.
The Tennessee Highway Patrol, Madison County Fire Rescue, and multiple emergency agencies rushed to the scene.
Lt. Christopher Hosick of the Highway Patrol confirmed the two deaths and described “multiple others with injuries.”
Of the 39 injured, 27 were transported by ambulance to local hospitals for treatment.
The bus was carrying 32 passengers, a bus operator, and a relief driver.
According to Greyhound, 30 people were hospitalized, though most have since been released.
The company has stated that it is “actively investigating the situation and providing necessary assistance to our passengers, the driver, and law enforcement.”
As of now, the cause of the crash remains unknown. Authorities have not released details about how the collision occurred, and it’s unclear whether the five other injured individuals were in the bus or another vehicle.
The Tennessee Highway Patrol has promised a preliminary report soon, but for now, the community is left with questions—and grief.
Also read: Breaking: What mistake let a gunman walk into a school—leaving four hurt and a city on edge?
A Closer Look: Bus Travel and Road Safety
For many older Americans, bus travel is a lifeline—whether it’s for visiting grandchildren, attending reunions, or simply exploring the country without the hassle of driving.
Greyhound, in particular, has long been a trusted name, with millions of passengers each year. But this tragedy raises important questions: How safe is bus travel, and what can we do to protect ourselves?
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, intercity buses like Greyhound are statistically safer than personal vehicles, with fewer fatalities per mile traveled.
However, when accidents do occur, they can be catastrophic due to the number of people involved and the size of the vehicles.
Common causes of bus accidents include driver fatigue, mechanical failure, poor weather conditions, and, as in this case, collisions with other vehicles.
While bus companies are required to follow strict safety protocols, accidents can and do happen.
Source: WREG News Channel 3 / Youtube.
What Should You Do If You’re Involved in a Bus Accident?
No one boards a bus expecting disaster, but it’s wise to be prepared. Here are a few tips for staying safe and knowing what to do if the unthinkable happens:
1. Wear Your Seatbelt: Many newer buses are equipped with seatbelts. If yours has one, use it.
2. Know the Exits: Take a moment to locate emergency exits when you board.
3. Keep Emergency Contacts Handy: Carry a list of emergency contacts and any important medical information in your wallet or phone.
4. Follow Instructions: In the event of an accident, listen to the driver and emergency personnel.
5. Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, get checked out after an accident. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
Read next: You won’t believe how this 79-year-old visited every country in the world—and what she learned along the way
Have you traveled by bus recently? Do you have concerns about road safety, or tips for fellow travelers? Have you or someone you know ever experienced a travel emergency? Share your stories, questions, and advice in the comments below!
But on the evening of May 26th, that symbol was marred by tragedy when a Greyhound bus traveling from Memphis to Nashville crashed on Highway 70 East in Madison County, Tennessee, near Jackson.
The result: two lives lost and 39 people injured, a sobering reminder that even the most familiar journeys can take a devastating turn.
What Happened on Highway 70?
The details are still emerging, but here’s what we know so far. At approximately 6:48 pm, a collision occurred involving the Greyhound bus and at least one other passenger vehicle.
The Tennessee Highway Patrol, Madison County Fire Rescue, and multiple emergency agencies rushed to the scene.
Lt. Christopher Hosick of the Highway Patrol confirmed the two deaths and described “multiple others with injuries.”
Of the 39 injured, 27 were transported by ambulance to local hospitals for treatment.
Two people died and 39 others were injured after a Greyhound bus collided with a passenger vehicle in western Tennessee, near Jackson. Image source: WBIR Channel 10 / Youtube.
The bus was carrying 32 passengers, a bus operator, and a relief driver.
According to Greyhound, 30 people were hospitalized, though most have since been released.
The company has stated that it is “actively investigating the situation and providing necessary assistance to our passengers, the driver, and law enforcement.”
As of now, the cause of the crash remains unknown. Authorities have not released details about how the collision occurred, and it’s unclear whether the five other injured individuals were in the bus or another vehicle.
The Tennessee Highway Patrol has promised a preliminary report soon, but for now, the community is left with questions—and grief.
Also read: Breaking: What mistake let a gunman walk into a school—leaving four hurt and a city on edge?
A Closer Look: Bus Travel and Road Safety
For many older Americans, bus travel is a lifeline—whether it’s for visiting grandchildren, attending reunions, or simply exploring the country without the hassle of driving.
Greyhound, in particular, has long been a trusted name, with millions of passengers each year. But this tragedy raises important questions: How safe is bus travel, and what can we do to protect ourselves?
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, intercity buses like Greyhound are statistically safer than personal vehicles, with fewer fatalities per mile traveled.
However, when accidents do occur, they can be catastrophic due to the number of people involved and the size of the vehicles.
Common causes of bus accidents include driver fatigue, mechanical failure, poor weather conditions, and, as in this case, collisions with other vehicles.
While bus companies are required to follow strict safety protocols, accidents can and do happen.
Source: WREG News Channel 3 / Youtube.
What Should You Do If You’re Involved in a Bus Accident?
No one boards a bus expecting disaster, but it’s wise to be prepared. Here are a few tips for staying safe and knowing what to do if the unthinkable happens:
1. Wear Your Seatbelt: Many newer buses are equipped with seatbelts. If yours has one, use it.
2. Know the Exits: Take a moment to locate emergency exits when you board.
3. Keep Emergency Contacts Handy: Carry a list of emergency contacts and any important medical information in your wallet or phone.
4. Follow Instructions: In the event of an accident, listen to the driver and emergency personnel.
5. Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, get checked out after an accident. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
Read next: You won’t believe how this 79-year-old visited every country in the world—and what she learned along the way
Have you traveled by bus recently? Do you have concerns about road safety, or tips for fellow travelers? Have you or someone you know ever experienced a travel emergency? Share your stories, questions, and advice in the comments below!
