LANCASTER, Calif. – A devastating transportation accident unfolded late Wednesday morning in Lancaster, prompting authorities to declare a mass casualty incident after a city transit bus carrying numerous passengers—including children—overturned near active railroad tracks. The incident occurred at approximately 11:18 a.m. near the intersection of Sierra Highway and West Avenue C, according to officials with the California Highway Patrol (CHP) and the Los Angeles County Fire Department.

A Morning Commute Turned Tragic

Preliminary information suggests that the city-operated transit bus, for reasons still under investigation, lost control and veered across railroad tracks before overturning. The large vehicle came to rest on its side just feet from the tracks, raising immediate fears of further disaster had a train been present at the time. Fortunately, no trains were involved in the crash.

Witnesses at the scene described the moment as chaotic and terrifying. One local resident, who was walking nearby, said he heard a loud screech and turned to see the bus rolling onto its side. “It was like slow motion,” he recounted. “I saw people banging on the windows trying to get out.”

Emergency Response and Injuries

First responders from the Los Angeles County Fire Department, CHP, and other local emergency agencies descended on the site within minutes. Due to the number of injured and the complex nature of the crash—given its proximity to railroad infrastructure—a mass casualty incident was declared to ensure all available resources were mobilized.

According to early assessments, approximately 20 individuals required medical attention. Among them were both adults and children, though the precise number of passengers aboard the bus at the time remains unclear as the investigation continues.

One of the injured is reported to be an 8-year-old boy, who was stabilized at the scene and transported to a nearby hospital. He is currently listed in stable condition. The severity of the other injuries ranges from minor to moderate, and some passengers were treated at the scene for scrapes, bruises, and shock.

Paramedics could be seen triaging victims on blankets laid out on the ground beside the overturned bus, while firefighters worked carefully to extract trapped passengers using specialized tools. Multiple ambulances and two air rescue helicopters were deployed to assist in patient transport.

Investigation Underway

The cause of the crash remains under investigation by the California Highway Patrol’s Major Accident Investigation Team, in collaboration with local law enforcement and transit officials. Investigators are looking into multiple factors, including potential mechanical failure, driver error, road conditions, or possible medical emergencies involving the driver.

The exact route of the bus, its capacity, and whether safety protocols were followed will be critical parts of the ongoing inquiry.

A spokesperson for the transit agency operating the bus said they are fully cooperating with authorities and have launched their own internal review. “Our priority at this time is the health and safety of our passengers and driver. We are deeply concerned by this incident and are working closely with emergency responders and investigators.”

Community Shock and Support

The Lancaster community is reeling from the incident, with many residents expressing both concern and gratitude that the situation was not more tragic. Local officials noted the quick actions of emergency crews likely saved lives.

“This could have been far worse,” said one city council member. “To have a bus full of people overturn near railroad tracks is every city’s nightmare. We’re incredibly thankful for our first responders and for the fact that, as of now, there are no fatalities.”

Local schools and community centers have also mobilized to offer support and crisis counseling for those affected. Parents rushed to nearby hospitals, desperate for updates on their children’s conditions, while community leaders issued statements of solidarity and compassion.

Looking Ahead

As the investigation continues and the passengers recover, the city of Lancaster is left grappling with the aftermath of a traumatic and unexpected event. Authorities have promised full transparency in uncovering the cause of the crash and implementing any necessary changes to prevent a similar tragedy in the future.

In the meantime, the incident serves as a sobering reminder of the fragility of everyday life and the vital role that swift emergency response plays in saving lives. Community members are urged to continue monitoring official updates and to support those impacted by this harrowing ordeal.

Anyone who witnessed the crash or has information that may assist investigators is encouraged to contact the California Highway Patrol’s local office.