A frightening situation unfolded Friday evening when a tour bus carrying middle school students from Lexington, Massachusetts caught fire along Interstate 93 in Woodstock, New Hampshire. Thanks to the quick response of the driver, school staff, and emergency crews, all students were safely evacuated.
The incident happened around 6:30 p.m. when authorities received reports that a bus traveling northbound on I-93 had caught fire and passengers — including children — were exiting the vehicle. By the time firefighters reached the scene, the rear portion of the bus was engulfed in flames, sending thick smoke into the evening sky.
State officials later confirmed that approximately 60 seventh- and eighth-grade students, along with adult staff members, were aboard the bus. Investigators believe the fire began after smoke was detected coming from the engine compartment just south of Exit 32.
The bus driver immediately pulled over to the side of the highway once the issue became apparent. Students and staff exited the vehicle in an orderly manner as smoke rapidly filled the interior. Authorities praised the calm and swift actions taken by everyone involved, noting that the prompt evacuation likely prevented serious injuries.
One adult was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment related to smoke inhalation. No other injuries were reported among the students or staff.
Images from the scene showed significant fire damage concentrated at the back of the bus, with several windows shattered. Emergency crews worked to extinguish the blaze while state troopers managed traffic and ensured the safety of those involved.
Following the evacuation, students and chaperones were escorted to a nearby business in Lincoln, New Hampshire, where they waited safely until a replacement bus arrived to continue the trip.
The group was traveling to Jay Peak in Vermont for an annual school ski trip organized each March. According to school officials, roughly 100 students and eight staff members were participating in the excursion, traveling in two separate buses at the time of the incident. The second bus was not affected.
In a statement, school administrators commended the driver, teachers, and chaperones for their rapid response and professionalism during the emergency. Parents were also thanked for their support and cooperation as updates were provided throughout the evening.
Northbound lanes of Interstate 93 were temporarily shut down for approximately 90 minutes as crews battled the fire and cleared the scene. Traffic was diverted at Exit 31 before normal flow was restored.
Authorities have indicated that no foul play is suspected, and the incident appears to be mechanical in nature.
Woodstock, New Hampshire, where the fire occurred, is located roughly 120 miles north of Lexington, Massachusetts. Despite the scare, school officials confirmed that students remained safe and in good spirits following the event, and the trip continued as planned once transportation was secured.
