A devastating collision involving a Greyhound bus and three parked tractor-trailers on Interstate 70 in southern Illinois has resulted in the loss of three lives and left 14 others injured. The incident occurred in the early hours of Wednesday, July 12, 2023, near Highland, approximately 25 miles east of St. Louis.

According to Illinois State Police, the westbound Greyhound bus struck the three semis parked along the exit ramp to a rest area at around 1:55 a.m. Emergency responders swiftly transported four individuals to the hospital via helicopter, while at least ten others were taken by ambulance. The severity of the injuries sustained varies, with some reported as serious.

All those killed and injured were aboard the Greyhound bus, confirmed State Police spokesperson Melaney Arnold. The status of the bus driver remains unclear at this time. The occupants of the three tractor-trailers were unharmed in the incident.

The image above depicts the wreckage of the Greyhound bus following the collision. The front of the bus is significantly damaged and wedged against the rear of a tractor-trailer. The bus's roof is also visibly crumpled. Two other tractor-trailers appear to have been involved, with one impacted by the rear of the bus and the other colliding with the second semi.

Greyhound spokesperson Mike Ogulnick stated that the bus was en route from Indianapolis to St. Louis, with an estimated arrival time of 2:20 a.m. Approximately 30 individuals, including the driver, were on board. A relief bus was dispatched to transport the uninjured passengers.

Ogulnick emphasized the company's priority is the well-being of the passengers and driver, and they are collaborating closely with local authorities. The westbound lanes of I-70 were temporarily closed due to the accident.