POLK COUNTY, Florida — A tragic school bus crash in Polk County claimed the lives of two people and left dozens injured Monday morning, while the actions of a school bus driver and several students have been praised as examples of courage and selflessness amid the chaos.
Authorities identified the victims as Adinaluz Prieto Oyola, a 10th-grade student at Winter Haven High School, and Deshawn Smith, 26, the driver of a Jeep involved in the collision.
According to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, the crash occurred when a white Chevrolet Malibu crossed the double yellow center line and collided with a school bus carrying 37 students, the bus driver, and the driver’s 9-year-old child.
Investigators said the initial impact caused significant damage to the bus, including tearing off one of its tires. The force of the collision reportedly pushed the bus into oncoming traffic, where it then struck a Jeep head-on.
Deshawn Smith was pronounced dead at the scene. Adinaluz Prieto Oyola, who was riding on the bus at the time of the crash, also suffered fatal injuries.
The devastating accident sent numerous students and occupants to area hospitals for treatment. Officials later confirmed that three students remained hospitalized but are expected to recover.
As the community mourns the loss of two lives, attention has also turned to the actions of Jessica Dye, the 34-year-old school bus driver who has been widely praised for her response following the collision.
Sheriff Grady Judd said Dye became trapped inside the damaged bus but managed to free herself before immediately turning her attention to the children on board. Despite her own injuries and the traumatic circumstances, she reportedly focused on helping students and ensuring their safety.
Polk County Superintendent Fred Heid commended Dye’s actions, describing her as a hero for remaining calm and prioritizing the wellbeing of the students during the emergency.
Heid also praised the efforts of students and bystanders who rushed to assist those injured in the crash. According to officials, several students attempted to help rescue Prieto Oyola from the wreckage. One student was reportedly heard reassuring her, saying, “Don’t worry, I won’t leave you,” as rescue efforts unfolded.
The heartbreaking details have resonated throughout Polk County, where residents are grieving the loss of Adinaluz and Smith while also recognizing the bravery displayed in the aftermath of the collision.
Investigators continue working to determine what caused the Chevrolet Malibu to cross into oncoming traffic. Authorities said the vehicle was driven by Maria Jimenez, 23, who has cooperated fully with the investigation.
According to Sheriff Judd, Jimenez voluntarily provided investigators with access to her phone and submitted to a blood draw. Preliminary findings have not revealed signs of impairment, though toxicology results remain pending.
At this stage, investigators have not determined why the vehicle drifted across the center line. Sheriff Judd indicated that traffic citations related to the lane violation are likely, but criminal charges are not expected unless additional evidence emerges during the investigation.
The tragedy has deeply affected students, families, educators, first responders, and the wider Polk County community. Tributes continue to pour in for Adinaluz Prieto Oyola, whose death has left classmates, teachers, and loved ones mourning the loss of a young life filled with promise.
Friends and family members are also remembering Deshawn Smith, whose life was cut short in the collision. Community members have expressed condolences to both families as they navigate an unimaginable loss.
In response to the tragedy, donations are being accepted through Polk Sheriff’s Charities to assist the families with funeral expenses and other related needs.
As the investigation continues, the community remains united in grief and support, honoring the memories of Adinaluz Prieto Oyola and Deshawn Smith while recognizing the extraordinary efforts of those who stepped forward to help during one of the county’s most devastating recent accidents.
The crash remains under investigation by the Polk County Sheriff’s Office.
