Shelby County, OH (February 25, 2025) – A tragic collision involving a school bus and a pickup truck on Monday afternoon resulted in one fatality. Authorities believe the crash may have been caused by a medical emergency.
The Shelby County Sheriff’s Office reported that the accident occurred around 3:30 p.m. in the 5000 block of Houston Road. The school bus had stopped to let students off, with a 2023 Chevy Silverado coming to a stop behind it. As the bus deactivated its flashing stop lights and began moving again, the pickup truck suddenly accelerated and crashed into the rear of the bus.
Emergency responders arrived at the scene and found that the driver of the pickup, identified as 62-year-old Eric Brandewie of Fort Loramie, had suffered a medical emergency before the crash. Medics pronounced him deceased at the scene. Authorities later learned that Brandewie had called his wife minutes before the collision, reporting chest pains and sweating while on his way to seek medical attention with his daughter.
The school bus was carrying 32 students at the time of the crash. Only one student reported an ankle injury but was treated and released at the scene. The bus sustained functional damage and was able to continue its route after authorities completed their investigation at the scene.
The Shelby County Coroner’s Office is conducting an autopsy to confirm the exact cause of death.
Our thoughts are with the family and loved ones of Eric Brandewie during this difficult time.
Medical Emergencies and Traffic Safety in Ohio
Medical emergencies while driving can pose significant risks to both the driver and others on the road. In cases like this, sudden health issues such as heart attacks, strokes, or severe pain can cause a driver to lose control, leading to tragic accidents.
Recognizing early warning signs of a medical emergency, such as chest pain, dizziness, or shortness of breath, is crucial. If a driver experiences these symptoms, pulling over in a safe location and seeking immediate medical assistance can help prevent accidents. Family members should also be aware of their loved ones’ health conditions and encourage them to seek medical attention before getting behind the wheel.
This accident also highlights the importance of school bus safety. While the students in this case were largely unharmed, rear-end collisions involving buses can be dangerous. Ohio law requires drivers to exercise caution around school buses, especially when they are stopped for student drop-offs.
For families affected by accidents involving medical emergencies or school bus incidents, understanding available support resources can be essential for navigating the aftermath. If you or a loved one has been involved in a serious accident, seeking guidance can help ensure the necessary assistance for recovery and peace of mind.