Bakersfield, California – A fatal Bakersfield school bus crash has claimed the life of one man and left three others injured after a Toyota Sienna collided head-on with a Kern High School District school bus. The tragic accident occurred on August 24th, 2023, at around 6:33 p.m. on Mount Vernon Avenue, just south of Belle Terrace.
The Kern County Sheriff’s Office identified the deceased driver as Gilverto Moreno Castro, 48, of Lamont, California. According to the California Highway Patrol, Castro’s vehicle drifted into oncoming traffic, directly into the path of the school bus carrying 38 students.
The impact resulted in Castro’s death at the scene. The bus driver and two passengers sustained minor to moderate injuries and were promptly transported to Kern Medical Hospital for treatment.
Authorities are continuing their investigation to determine the exact cause of the crash. The California Highway Patrol has urged anyone with information regarding the incident to contact the Bakersfield CHP Area office at (661) 396-6600.
This Bakersfield accident is a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of road safety. Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with the victims and their families during this difficult time.
