CEDAR CITY, Utah (KUTV) — One person was killed in a collision involving a school bus and a motorcycle on SR-56 near the Cedar City airport on Monday.
The crash occurred just before 8 a.m. at the intersection with Westview Drive, according to the Utah Department of Transportation.
Authorities reported that a 42-year-old male motorcyclist, who has yet to be identified, was struck as he traveled west on SR-56 when the eastbound school bus turned left on a yellow indicator. The motorcyclist was wearing a helmet and protective gear but was pronounced dead at the scene.
The Iron County School District confirmed that no students were on board the bus at the time, as it was beginning its morning route. The District issued a statement expressing condolences to the motorcyclist’s family and noted that the incident is under active investigation.
Traffic was affected, with several lanes at the intersection closed for investigation and cleanup, causing significant delays in both directions on SR-56. Eastbound backups extended to Iron Springs Elementary School, while westbound delays reached Cross Hollow Road.
This incident marks the second vehicle collision in the area within a week, leading to community concerns regarding bus safety and driver training. Authorities reassured that school bus drivers undergo rigorous safety inspections and required training.
The investigation is ongoing, and further updates will be provided by law enforcement as new information becomes available.