A school bus carrying the Central High School wrestling team from Grand Junction crashed in the Denver area on December 6, 2025, injuring multiple students and coaches. The accident happened at a busy intersection after a tournament, leading to quick responses from emergency teams and ongoing investigations.

Crash Details Emerge

The crash took place at the intersection of Kipling Parkway and West 6th Avenue in Lakewood, near Denver, around 7:33 p.m. on Saturday. Police reports indicate the District 51 activity bus collided with another vehicle, causing serious damage and ejections.

Eyewitness accounts describe a chaotic scene with the bus veering into traffic. The wrestling team had just finished competing in a tournament and was heading back home when the incident occurred.

Investigators believe road conditions or driver error might have played a role, though full details remain under review. The bus carried 13 students and two coaches from Central High School in Grand Junction.

This type of accident highlights ongoing concerns about vehicle safety on Colorado highways, especially during winter months when ice can form unexpectedly.

Injuries and Medical Response

At least 14 people were taken to nearby hospitals following the crash. Among them, three students and one coach remained hospitalized as of December 7, 2025, receiving care for various injuries.

Emergency crews arrived within minutes, providing aid and transporting everyone from the bus to medical centers. Reports confirm multiple serious bodily injuries, but no fatalities occurred.

The quick actions of first responders likely prevented worse outcomes. Families of all involved students received notifications soon after the event.

School officials noted that the rest of the team members reunited with their loved ones by late Saturday night.

Here is a summary of key injury updates:

• Critical Cases: Five individuals faced serious conditions right after the crash.
• Non-Critical Injuries: Nine others had less severe issues, treated and monitored.
• Total Hospitalized: 14 people, including all 15 from the bus.

Investigation and Road Impact

The Lakewood Police Department’s traffic team took over the scene by 11:54 p.m. on December 6. They closed roads around the intersection, causing delays for hours with no clear reopening time.

Officials are examining factors like speed, weather, and possible distractions. No charges have been filed yet, but the probe continues into vehicle conditions and driver statements.

This event echoes a similar school bus crash in Colorado earlier this year, where poor visibility led to injuries among students on a field trip.

Community members expressed relief that the accident did not involve more vehicles, given the busy location during evening hours.

School District Support Efforts

Mesa County Valley School District 51 acted fast to support those affected. They coordinated with police and hospitals to keep families informed and provided counseling resources.

The district emphasized their focus on student and staff well-being, promising more updates as facts emerge. Central High School plans to hold a meeting for parents to discuss the incident.

Transportation safety protocols are now under review, including bus maintenance and driver training. This could lead to changes in how schools handle team travel.

Community Reaction and Next Steps

Residents in Grand Junction and Denver have shown support through social media messages and local fundraisers for the wrestling team. Parents praised the school’s quick communication during the crisis.

This accident raises questions about improving safety for student athletes on the road. Experts suggest better route planning and emergency drills could help in future trips.

As the story develops, many hope for full recoveries and stronger safety measures. Share your thoughts on school travel safety in the comments below, and pass this article along to raise awareness.