School Bus Carrying Minco High School Softball Team Crashes

Minco, Oklahoma, September 10, 2025

News Summary

A tragic accident involving a school bus carrying Minco High School softball players occurred, resulting in several injuries. The bus, while attempting to avoid a deer, overturned and left one adult and two juveniles critically injured. The driver was the only person wearing a seatbelt at the time. The community has organized support for the victims, including a prayer meeting and fundraising efforts. Classes are set to resume, but homecoming events are postponed as the community rallies together in this difficult time.

Minco, Oklahoma – A tragic accident occurred on Monday night when a school bus transporting Minco High School softball players and coaches crashed, leaving several individuals injured. As of September 9, 2025, the Oklahoma Highway Patrol reported that several victims remain hospitalized, with one adult male and two juveniles in critical condition.

The bus was driven by the head high school softball coach, Cody Schmidt, when it swerved to avoid a deer on State Highway 152 just east of Cogar shortly before 8 p.m. The bus struck the deer and rolled over once before landing on its wheels. Four of the 18 individuals aboard were ejected during the rollover, and seven total injuries were confirmed, which included one driver and six passengers. In addition to the critically injured, two adults and two students sustained non-serious injuries from the crash.

Shockingly, only the driver, Schmidt, was wearing a seatbelt at the time of the incident. Reports suggest that there were no seatbelts available for the passengers. The identity of the critically injured adult has not yet been released, nor have updates been provided on the conditions of the juveniles.

In a statement, Minco School District Superintendent Kevin Sims expressed gratitude that no fatalities were reported and the community’s collective shock from the accident. A prayer meeting was organized on Tuesday evening at the softball field to support the injured and their families. Classes at Minco High School are scheduled to resume on Wednesday. However, the school is rescheduling its homecoming events, with the parade now set for October 2 and the homecoming game on October 3.

To support the victims, the community is encouraged to contribute to the softball team through the First National Bank and Trust in Minco. Additionally, a Meal Train page has been established to aid Jordan Benge, another coach who is in critical condition and requires multiple procedures following the crash. One of the survivors, Presley Bilderback, has shared her account of the harrowing experience, noting relief that all accounted for survived the incident.

The Minco community is rallying together in the wake of this tragic event, offering prayers, support, and resources for those affected. The focus remains on recovery for those injured and healing for the families involved as they come to terms with the events of the accident.

Key Details

• Incident Date: September 9, 2025
• Location: State Highway 152, east of Cogar, Oklahoma
• Total Individuals on Bus: 18
• Critical Injuries: 1 adult male, 2 juveniles
• Total Injuries: 7 (including 1 driver and 6 passengers)
• Condition of Driver: Only individual wearing a seatbelt
• Community Events: Prayer Meeting, Rescheduled Homecoming Events

Background Context

The school bus crash highlights the ongoing concerns regarding safety measures for student transport. The lack of seatbelts for passengers on school buses has been a point of contention in many districts. In light of this incident, community leaders are expected to call for a review of existing safety protocols to prevent similar accidents in the future. The outpouring of support from the Minco community showcases the unity and resilience of the area as they come together to support those affected by this tragic event.

FAQ

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Additional Resources

• KOCO News
• Wikipedia: School Bus Accident
• KFOR News
• Google Search: Minco school bus crash
• The Oklahoman
• Encyclopedia Britannica: School Bus Safety
• Hindustan Times
• Google News: Minco Bus Crash

Author: STAFF HERE HOUSTON TX WRITER

HOUSTON STAFF WRITER The HOUSTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHouston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Houston, Harris County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, Art Car Parade, and Chevron Houston Marathon. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Houston Partnership and Houston Area Urban League, plus leading businesses in energy and healthcare that power the local economy such as ExxonMobil, Schlumberger, and Houston Methodist. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.