Kokomo, Indiana, October 7, 2025

News Summary

A construction worker tragically lost his life after being struck by a school bus in Kokomo, Indiana. The accident involved a bus and a truck colliding at an intersection, leading to the worker’s fatality. Fortunately, the bus had eight children on board who were unharmed, while the bus driver suffered minor injuries. The community, including the Northwestern School Corporation, has expressed deep condolences and is providing support for those affected by this unfortunate event.

Kokomo, Indiana – Construction Worker Dies After Being Struck by School Bus

A tragic accident on October 6, 2023, claimed the life of a 31-year-old construction worker, Aaron Esparza, from Logansport, Indiana. Esparza was involved in directing traffic in a construction zone when he was struck by a school bus near Kokomo.

The incident occurred at approximately 3:30 p.m. at the intersection of State Road 22 and County Road 400 East, situated east of Kokomo. Esparza was performing his traffic directing duties when the school bus, which was traveling northbound on County Road 400 East and driven by 35-year-old Kokomo resident Tara D. Lopez, entered the intersection. The bus was subsequently struck on the driver’s side by a gray 2008 Dodge Ram truck, driven by 72-year-old Rolland Brent Mcquiston from Windfall, Indiana, who was heading east on State Road 22.

The force of the collision caused the bus to hit Esparza, resulting in his death at the scene, as confirmed by the Howard County Coroner’s Office. Lopez, the bus driver, suffered minor injuries and received medical treatment at the scene. Fortunately, none of the eight children from the Northwestern School Corporation on board the bus were reported injured.

According to the Indiana State Police, preliminary investigations suggest that neither alcohol nor drugs were a factor in the crash. As a precaution, an in-depth investigation is currently being conducted by law enforcement and emergency responders into the circumstances surrounding the accident.

The Northwestern School Corporation expressed profound sadness over the situation, issuing condolences to Esparza’s family. The school district has offered counseling services to support students and staff affected by the incident. In line with their cooperative efforts, school officials are fully assisting the authorities during the investigation.

Background Information

This unfortunate incident highlights the dangers faced by construction workers who are often required to manage traffic in active work zones. Road safety remains a critical concern, especially in areas where school children may be present. In recent years, there have been heightened calls for measures aimed at protecting workers and improving traffic regulations in construction zones.

Moreover, the Northwestern School Corporation is known for prioritizing student safety and community engagement, reflecting a commitment to providing a safe educational environment. The school district’s response to this tragic event underscores their dedication to supporting their community during times of crisis.

Key Facts Recap

• The accident occurred on October 6, 2023, at around 3:30 p.m.
• Victim: Aaron Esparza, 31, from Logansport, Indiana.
• Bus Driver: Tara D. Lopez, 35, from Kokomo, Indiana.
• Truck Driver: Rolland Brent Mcquiston, 72, from Windfall, Indiana.
• Bus carried 8 children, none injured.
• Minor injuries were reported for the bus driver.
• No evidence of alcohol or drugs contributing to the crash.

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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

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