Emergency services rushed to a serious transportation incident on Sunday when a bus carrying passengers from a church camp overturned on a treacherous California roadway, sending 20 people to area hospitals for medical treatment.
Emergency Response and Rescue Operation
The dramatic accident occurred near Running Springs, California, on November 9, 2025, when the bus lost control on a winding mountain highway. San Bernardino County Fire Department personnel were among the first responders at the scene, where they found the large vehicle on its side and multiple passengers requiring immediate medical attention.
Photographs released by the San Bernardino County Fire Department show the extensive emergency response, with numerous rescue vehicles and personnel working to extract passengers from the overturned bus. The challenging terrain and remote location of the accident complicated rescue efforts, requiring coordinated response from multiple agencies.
Details of the Church Camp Excursion
The bus was returning from a church camp outing when the accident occurred, though specific details about the camp location and participating congregation have not been immediately released. Church camps are popular throughout California, particularly in mountainous regions like the Running Springs area, which offers numerous retreat facilities and outdoor activity centers.
The winding roads through the San Bernardino Mountains present significant driving challenges, with sharp curves, steep drop-offs, and frequently changing weather conditions that can create hazardous situations for large vehicles like buses.
Ongoing Investigation and Passenger Condition
Authorities have launched a full investigation into the cause of the accident, examining factors such as road conditions, vehicle maintenance records, and driver experience. The California Highway Patrol will likely lead this investigation, working to determine whether mechanical failure, driver error, or environmental factors contributed to the rollover.
While the exact nature and severity of injuries sustained by the 20 hospitalized individuals remains unclear, the large number of patients suggests a significant impact requiring substantial medical resources. Local hospitals implemented emergency protocols to handle the sudden influx of patients from the single incident.
This accident highlights the ongoing safety concerns surrounding group transportation, particularly for religious organizations and youth groups that frequently utilize buses for outings and retreats. The incident serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of vehicle maintenance, driver training, and safety protocols for all forms of group travel.
