A school bus carrying the Central High School wrestling team from Grand Junction crashed into an SUV in Lakewood, near Denver, on the evening of December 7, 2025. The accident happened at the intersection of Kipling Parkway and West 6th Avenue, leaving multiple people injured and prompting a quick response from emergency teams.
What Happened in the Crash
The bus was heading back home after a wrestling tournament at Arapahoe High School in Centennial. Around 7:33 p.m., it collided with an SUV, causing serious damage. Police reports show that the impact ejected at least one person from the SUV.
Witnesses described a chaotic scene with the bus tilted and debris scattered across the road. Emergency crews arrived within minutes to help those involved. The crash closed lanes for hours while investigators worked the site.
Roads stayed shut late into the night as teams cleared the area. No one knows yet what caused the driver of the SUV to cross into the bus’s path.
Injuries and Medical Response
All 13 students and two coaches on the bus went to nearby hospitals for checks. As of December 9, 2025, three students and one coach remain in the hospital with injuries that range from minor to serious.
The SUV driver suffered major harm after being thrown from the vehicle. Family members shared that he is stable but faces a long recovery. In total, about 14 people needed hospital care right after the crash.
Doctors treated cuts, broken bones, and head injuries among the group. Most wrestlers have since gone home to their families, but the school district keeps a close watch on everyone affected.
Medical teams praised the quick actions of first responders, which likely saved lives. No deaths occurred, but the event shook the tight-knit wrestling community.
Ongoing Investigation
Lakewood Police Department’s traffic team leads the probe into the accident. They are looking at speed, road conditions, and possible distractions as factors.
No charges have come out yet, and officials ask for patience while they gather facts. Weather was clear that night, but heavy traffic in the area might have played a role.
Investigators talked to witnesses and reviewed camera footage from nearby spots. They plan to release more details soon.
The school district works with police to support the families. They promise to share updates as new info comes in.
Community Support and Fundraiser
People across Colorado have stepped up to help the wrestling team and their families. A GoFundMe page set up by the school quickly raised over $21,000 by December 9, 2025, far beyond its $5,000 goal.
The money covers hotel stays, meals, lost work pay, and new gear for the team. Extra funds will boost the wrestling program at Central High.
- Donations poured in from fellow wrestlers, local businesses, and even rival schools.
- Community events include prayer vigils and meal trains for affected families.
- Social media posts show messages of hope and recovery wishes.
This outpouring highlights the strong bonds in high school sports. Many say it reminds them of past team tragedies, like the 2018 Humboldt Broncos bus crash in Canada that claimed 16 lives.
Impact on the School and Team
Central High School canceled classes for a day to let students process the news. Counselors are on hand to talk with anyone feeling upset.
The wrestling season might face delays as the team heals. Coaches focus on mental health alongside physical recovery.
Parents express relief that no one died but worry about long-term effects. One parent shared how the crash changed their view on team travel safety.
| Key Timeline of Events | Details |
|---|---|
| December 7, Morning | Team competes at Arapahoe High School tournament. |
| December 7, 7:33 p.m. | Crash occurs at Kipling and 6th Avenue. |
| December 7, Evening | All on bus taken to hospitals; roads closed. |
| December 8 | GoFundMe launches; raises thousands quickly. |
| December 9 | Three students, one coach still hospitalized; fundraiser tops $21,000. |
This table shows the quick pace of events and response.
The accident raises questions about bus safety rules for school trips. Experts suggest better seat belts and driver training could prevent future issues.
If you have thoughts on this story or ways to help, share them in the comments below. Your input can build more awareness and support for the team.
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