School van driver killed in multi-vehicle crash in Westmoreland County

SALEM TOWNSHIP, Pa. — A school van driver is dead and a teenager injured after a multi-vehicle crash in Westmoreland County.

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The crash involving a school van, a tractor-trailer and an SUV happened around 7:15 a.m. near the intersection of Route 22 and Route 819 in Salem Township. Route 22 was closed in both directions but has since reopened.

The school van driver, identified by state police as Renee Davis, 60, was killed in the crash.

“It’s horrible that we had a loss of life, I can only imagine how horrific it is for the school district, which is Greensburg Salem,” said Trooper Steve Limani of Pennsylvania State Police.

There were no students on board the school van at the time.

“I think anytime that we hear that a school vehicle is in an accident it’s a very stressful situation that children could be involved, the driver, anybody,” said Greensburg Salem Superintendent Dr. Ken Bissell.

The driver of the tractor-trailer was not hurt. The district said the driver of the SUV was one of its high school students on their way to school. The 17-year-old student is OK but being evaluated at UPMC Children’s Hospital in Pittsburgh.

State police said that the tractor-trailer ran a red light and that sun glare may have played a factor in the crash.

Bissell said losing a bus driver can feel like losing a family member, and counseling will be on hand at the district for those who need it.

“They’re special people that they make bonds with the children, their families, and they become part of the community and sometimes become very close with the families and the students who they serve,” Bissell said.

DMJ Transportation, where Davis worked, sent Channel 11 the following statement: “Renee has been a valued member of the DMJ team since August 2023. She was known for her unwavering dedication and care for the students she transported. Her kindness and commitment left a positive mark on everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. We have been in touch with her family during this incredibly difficult time and will assist in any way we can. Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with them as they navigate this unimaginable loss.”

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