Kokomo, Indiana, October 7, 2025
News Summary
A tragic accident in Kokomo resulted in the death of a construction worker, Aaron Esparza, who was directing traffic when a school bus collided with a truck. The incident occurred at the intersection of State Road 22 and County Road 400 East. Thankfully, none of the eight children on the bus were injured. The community mourns the loss as investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding the accident.
Kokomo, Indiana – A tragic accident on October 6, 2023, has resulted in the death of a construction worker, identified as 31-year-old Aaron Esparza from Logansport, Indiana. The incident occurred around 3:30 p.m. at the intersection of State Road 22 and County Road 400 East, located east of Kokomo, while Esparza was directing traffic in a construction zone.
At the time of the accident, Tara D. Lopez, a 35-year-old resident of Kokomo, was driving a school bus northbound on County Road 400 East, carrying eight children from the Northwestern School Corporation. As she was crossing State Road 22, a gray 2008 Dodge Ram truck, driven by 72-year-old Rolland Brent Mcquiston from Windfall, Indiana, struck the driver’s side of the bus as it was traveling eastbound on State Road 22.
The collision resulted in the bus hitting Esparza, who was pronounced dead at the scene by the Howard County Coroner’s Office. Thankfully, none of the children aboard the bus were injured, and Lopez was treated on-site for minor injuries.
Preliminary investigations by the Indiana State Police indicate that neither alcohol nor drugs played a role in the crash. Authorities are currently conducting a comprehensive investigation involving law enforcement and emergency responders to establish the full circumstances surrounding this unfortunate incident.
The Northwestern School Corporation has expressed deep sadness over the loss of life, extending its condolences to Esparza’s family. To support students and staff affected by the incident, the school district has announced that counseling services will be available as needed.
This incident highlights the dangers faced by construction workers regularly. Esparza’s commitment to his job and the safety of others was evident in his role directing traffic in a construction zone. The community is mourning the loss of a dedicated worker and friend, as they reflect on the events that transpired on that fateful afternoon.
Key Details of the Incident
- Date: October 6, 2023
- Location: Intersection of State Road 22 and County Road 400 East, east of Kokomo
- Deceased: Aaron Esparza, 31 years old
- Truck Driver: Rolland Brent Mcquiston, 72 years old
- Bus Driver: Tara D. Lopez, 35 years old
- Children on Bus: 8 children (no injuries reported)
- Coroner’s Office: Pronounced Esparza dead at the scene
- Investigation Status: Ongoing by Indiana State Police
- School District Support: Counseling services offered
Background Context
Workplace safety, particularly in the construction industry, remains a significant concern, especially when workers are tasked with managing traffic in active zones. Construction workers are often exposed to various hazards daily, highlighting the critical need for safety measures and community awareness to protect those who contribute to public infrastructure.
In Indiana, construction zones can be busy, particularly during peak times of travel. It is vital for drivers to remain vigilant while navigating these areas and adhere to safety directives. The ongoing conversation surrounding road safety emerges as communities seek to prevent further tragedies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened in the incident involving the school bus and construction worker?
A construction worker named Aaron Esparza was struck by a school bus that was involved in a collision with a truck at the intersection near Kokomo, Indiana, resulting in his death. The incident occurred while he was directing traffic in a construction zone.
Were there any injuries among the children on the school bus?
No, none of the eight children on the school bus were injured during the incident.
Is there an investigation into the accident?
Yes, the Indiana State Police are conducting an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Date of Incident | October 6, 2023 |
| Location | Kokomo, Indiana |
| Victim | Aaron Esparza |
| Truck Driver | Rolland Brent Mcquiston |
| Bus Driver | Tara D. Lopez |
| Children on Bus | 8 children |
| Investigating Authority | Indiana State Police |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- WTHR
- Wikipedia: Kokomo, Indiana
- WISH-TV
- Google Search: construction worker accident Kokomo
- Fox 59
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Indiana
- WRTV
- Google News: Kokomo accidents
- Fox 59: Woman Hit by Car
- Kokomo Lantern
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