State, local leaders react to fatal Carroll County crash involving Montgomery County middle school bus
CEDAR GROVE, Tenn. (WSMV/WBBJ) – At least one person is dead and several injuries are being reported after a Montgomery County middle school bus and a dump truck collided in Carroll County Friday afternoon.
The Clarksville-Montgomery County School System confirmed that the bus was carrying Kenwood Middle School students who were on a field trip at the time of the crash. Read CMCSS’s full statement here:
“A CMCSS bus transporting a group of students and employees from Kenwood Middle School to Jackson, TN, for a field trip was involved in an accident in Carroll County, TN. All families of those on the bus have been contacted. The Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP) is the incident command, and CMCSS does not have any additional confirmed information at this time regarding the accident. We will share more information as law enforcement provides it.
Our hearts go out to our Kenwood community, students, staff, faculty, friends, and neighbors. Please join us in praying for all involved.”
Local and state leaders have shared reactions to the fatal crash.
Montgomery County Mayor Wes Golden:
“This is a bad day in Montgomery County. A Kenwood Middle School bus transporting students and adults in Carroll County was involved in a fatal crash. Parents have been contacted. There is still a lot of information coming in. Prayer is absolutely needed right now,” Golden said.
Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R-Tennessee):
Praying for those involved in this terrible crash with a school bus from Kenwood Middle School.
For those in the area, please follow guidance from @TNHighwayPatrol.https://t.co/yndqX3x0ms
— Sen. Marsha Blackburn (@MarshaBlackburn) March 27, 2026
State Representative Aron Mayberry:
“My heart is heavy as we learn about the tragic school bus accident involving a Montgomery County bus in Carroll County today.
We are praying for every student, family, and first responder affected by this heartbreaking situation. We ask our community to join us in lifting them up — for comfort, healing, and strength in the difficult hours ahead.
Please continue to pray for clarity and protection as officials work to understand what happened.
Clarksville stands together.”
Commissioner David W. Shelton:
“I deeply apologize for putting out information (about Kenwood Middle) that was not yet available to the public. It certainly was not my intent to break any news. I regret posting premature information.”
Congressman Matt Van Epps:
“My heart goes out to the Clarksville-Montgomery County community today amid reports of a serious vehicle accident involving a Kenwood Middle School bus. I am keeping the students, their families, and everyone affected in my prayers during this incredibly difficult time.
During moments like this, it is important that we come together to support one another, offer comfort, and stand in solidarity with this community.”
Montgomery County Commissioner Clayton Rudder:
“Tragic news of a Kenwood Middle school bus involved in a horrific accident. Please keep all those involved in your prayers.”
Secretary of State Tre Hargett:
State Representative Brock Martin:
“It’s been a very difficult day in Carroll County.
“Please join me and Krista in prayer for the Clarksville community, our local first responders, the TDOT family, and all others impacted by today’s tragic event. Our community stands ready to help in any way needed!”
Madison County Mayor AJ Massey
“Lauren and I are heartbroken over the loss of life in our neighboring Carroll County today. I have spoken to Montgomery County Mayor Golden to offer my condolences and any help Madison County can offer. He asked for prayers for his community.
Please keep the families impacted in your prayers.”
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