News Summary
A construction worker was tragically killed after being struck by a school bus in a construction zone near Kokomo, Indiana. The worker, identified as Aaron Esparza, was managing traffic when a Dodge Ram truck collided with the school bus. Fortunately, none of the children on the bus were injured, though the driver of the bus sustained minor injuries. The incident has raised concerns about safety measures in construction zones as investigations continue into the cause of the accident.
Kokomo, Indiana – Tragedy Strikes Construction Zone
A construction worker from Logansport, identified as 31-year-old Aaron Esparza, lost his life on October 6, 2023, after being struck by a school bus during an accident near Kokomo, Indiana. The incident occurred around 3:30 p.m. at the intersection of State Road 22 and County Road 400 East, in a designated construction area where Esparza was managing traffic.
The school bus involved in the collision was driven by a 35-year-old woman from Kokomo, Tara D. Lopez. At the time of the incident, Lopez was traveling northbound on County Road 400 East, crossing State Road 22 when it was hit on the driver’s side by a gray 2008 Dodge Ram truck. This truck was driven by Rolland Brent Mcquiston, a 72-year-old man from Windfall, Indiana, who was heading eastbound on State Road 22.
The impact of the collision caused the bus to veer and hit Esparza, who was pronounced dead at the scene by the Howard County Coroner’s Office. None of the eight children on board the school bus, which was affiliated with the Northwestern School Corporation, suffered any injuries. However, Lopez received treatment for minor injuries sustained during the accident.
Investigation Details
Indiana State Police have confirmed that preliminary examinations indicate neither alcohol nor drugs played a role in the crash. An investigation is presently ongoing, with law enforcement working alongside emergency responders to gather detailed information regarding the chain of events that led to this tragic incident.
Community Response
The Northwestern School Corporation has expressed profound sadness over the loss of Esparza. They have extended condolences to his family while also making counseling services available for students and staff affected by the tragedy. The district is cooperating fully with the investigation, prioritizing the well-being of its community during this difficult time.
Background Context
This incident comes at a time when road safety continues to be an important concern, particularly in construction zones where workers are often vulnerable. Construction workers routinely face dangers while managing road traffic and ensuring safety protocols are met. The support for Esparza’s family and the affected children has been a central focus since the tragedy occurred, emphasizing the importance of safety in everyday environments, such as school transportation.
As investigations continue, authorities are expected to review the protocols in place at the construction site and emphasize the importance of safety measures for all road users. The Kokomo community remains in a state of mourning as they come to terms with the loss of a dedicated worker who was committed to keeping others safe.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- WTHR
- Wikipedia: Kokomo, Indiana
- WISH-TV
- Google Search: construction worker accident Kokomo
- Fox 59
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Indiana
- WRTV
- Google News: Kokomo accidents
- Fox 59: Woman Hit by Car
- Kokomo Lantern
Author: STAFF HERE INDIANAPOLIS WRITER
The INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIndianapolis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Indianapolis, Marion County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Indianapolis 500, Indy Jazz Fest, and the Indiana State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Indy Chamber and Visit Indy, plus leading businesses in motorsports and healthcare that power the local economy such as Indianapolis Motor Speedway and IU Health. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Indiana's dynamic landscape.
