Callista Fisher Killed, Harold Budnovich and School Bus Driver Katherine Lopez Injured in Multi-Vehicle Collision Accident
A devastating multi-vehicle collision in Willard, Missouri, claimed the life of 17-year-old Willard High School senior Callista Fisher on Thursday. The tragic incident occurred late in the evening at Willard High School, involving a Willard School District bus and multiple vehicles. Law enforcement officials report that two additional drivers, Harold Budnovich and school bus driver Katherine Lopez, were injured in the collision.
Callista Fisher’s Tragic Loss
The Willard School District community is in mourning following the untimely death of senior student Callista Fisher. The late-evening collision, which took place at Willard High School, has left the community grappling with the profound loss. Resources are being made available to students to help them cope with the grief caused by the tragedy.
Multi-Vehicle Collision Details
The collision occurred on State Highway 266 close to State Highway AB around 4:30 p.m. Preliminary investigations indicate that an SUV driver backed out of the Dollar General parking lot, crossing the path of the school bus traveling west. This compelled the bus driver to cross the center line, resulting in a head-on collision with the teenage driver of a pickup truck, Callista Fisher, who tragically lost her life instantly.
Additional Collisions and Injuries
The collision also involved a utility pole and the school bus. Harold Budnovich, 68, of Springfield, was traveling south in a 2006 Ford Explorer when it collided with Katherine Lopez, 52, the school bus driver, who was driving west. The school bus, thankfully empty of students at the time, collided with a 1995 Chevrolet S10 after the initial impact.
Katherine Lopez, the school bus driver, sustained minor injuries and was transported to CoxSouth Hospital. On the other hand, Harold Budnovich, who suffered severe injuries, was taken to Mercy Hospital by ambulance.
Community Response and Support
The Willard School District is rallying around the affected families, offering condolences and support during this difficult time. The investigation into the collision is ongoing, and law enforcement officials are working to understand the circumstances surrounding this tragic event.
Updates on Injured Parties
Katherine Lopez, a dedicated school bus driver from Willard, Missouri, was taken to CoxSouth Hospital with minor injuries, while Harold Budnovich is receiving treatment for severe injuries at Mercy Hospital.
The Willard community is urged to stay informed about further developments and provide support to those affected by this heart-wrenching incident.
