Hamilton County Emergency Medical Services was quickly on the scene of Monday afternoon's school bus crash in which five children were killed and six are in critical condition.
Bob Williams, support specialist, said, "Approximately 35 Woodmore Elementary School students were on the bus and taken to area hospitals after the collision, several were seriously injured and unfortunately despite our best efforts five children lost their lives.
"EMS responded in accordance with disaster plans with all available ambulances, supervisory staff, senior leadership, and EMS logistics support. Triage was started by the first arriving paramedic and EMS command assumed by the first arriving field supervisor. Quickly all available HCEMS assets were mobilized to the scene and request for mutual aid was made. The most critically injured were transported initially as they were freed from the wreckage. While simultaneously a triage and treatment area was begun to prepare those less seriously injured to be prepared for transport."
Ken Wilkerson, director, said, “Our 'typical' Monday was shattered by the senseless tragedy that unfolded on Talley Road. With pride I watched the professionalism of all HCEMS Paramedic’s and Advanced EMT’s on scene as they faced the challenges and without hesitation willingly demonstrated their commitment to our community in providing care for the many injured students of this tragedy. As I watched each of them work I felt their compassion for each child as if they were their own, the commitment of the men and women of HCEMS made a huge difference in so many lives.
"Special thanks to the area ambulance providers Puckett, Southeast, Memorial, and Angel EMS for their assistance at the scene and to Bradley County EMS and Rhea County EMS for assistance with day to day operations in Hamilton County. Thanks also to Tennessee EMS Regional Consultant Nita Jernigan and others at Tennessee Department of Health EMS division. Each of these other agencies were willing to provide transportation, coverage, and assistance at the scene during this unforeseen tragedy.
"Each agency and its staff responded to help regardless of geographical or political boundaries. All agencies responded in accordance with years of training and preparation for an event everyone hopes would never happen. Their professionalism was evident at every point during this incident. On scene coordination efforts were also enhanced by the presence of various government leaders including Hamilton County Mayor Jim Coppinger. Mayor Coppinger reached out to various aspects of governmental operations to ensure cooperative efforts between agencies.
"We ask you to keep the families of those that lost loved ones and that had children injured in your thoughts and prayers this holiday season."