Thirteen passengers were taken to area hospitals after a Houston Metropolitan Transit Authority bus veered off an overpass Saturday afternoon following a collision with another vehicle, according to transit and police officials.
A Collision Above Highway 288
The crash happened around 2:30 p.m. as a Route 54 bus operated by Houston METRO was traveling across the McGowen Street overpass above Highway 288. Authorities say the bus was struck by a separate vehicle, causing it to leave the roadway and come to rest below the overpass.
Passengers Evaluated, Driver in Critical Condition
Officials later confirmed that everyone aboard the bus was out of danger. Thirteen riders were taken to local hospitals for evaluation as a precaution, and the bus driver was not injured and didn’t require hospital treatment. The driver of the other vehicle involved was reported to be in critical condition as of the most recent update.
What Happens to the Bus Now
According to reporting by KPRC, the damaged bus was removed from the scene and taken to a METRO Bus Operating Facility. Transit officials say onboard video footage will be downloaded and reviewed as part of the investigation, and the bus will stay out of service while authorities examine what led to the crash.
Emergency crews responded quickly, working to help those involved, secure the overpass area, and clear traffic. METRO officials credited the coordinated response across multiple agencies — transit police, city police, fire crews, and wrecking teams — for managing what was a complex and potentially dangerous situation.
What Investigators Still Don’t Know
Investigators haven’t yet determined what caused the other vehicle to collide with the bus or whether any charges will be filed. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities review evidence and video footage.
The incident temporarily disrupted traffic along the overpass and surrounding roadways as crews worked through the afternoon and evening. Transit officials say updates will be provided as more information becomes available, reiterating that passenger safety remains their top priority.