News Summary
A tragic incident in Kokomo resulted in the death of Aaron Esparza, a construction worker, after being struck by a school bus. The accident occurred during traffic control duties at a construction zone. Despite no injuries among the students on the bus, concerns about safety protocols in construction zones have arisen. The investigation is ongoing as the community mourns the dedicated worker’s untimely passing.
Kokomo, Indiana – A tragic accident on October 6, 2023, claimed the life of 31-year-old Aaron Esparza, a construction worker from Logansport, after he was struck by a school bus. The incident occurred around 3:30 p.m. at the intersection of State Road 22 and County Road 400 East, situated east of Kokomo.
Esparza was performing traffic control duties in a construction zone when he was hit by the bus. The vehicle was driven by 35-year-old Tara D. Lopez from Kokomo, who was traveling northbound on County Road 400 East. As Lopez’s bus crossed State Road 22, it collided on the driver’s side with a gray 2008 Dodge Ram truck driven by 72-year-old Rolland Brent Mcquiston from Windfall, Indiana. Mcquiston was traveling eastbound on State Road 22 at the time of the incident.
The force of the collision caused Lopez’s school bus to strike Esparza, resulting in his death at the scene, as confirmed by the Howard County Coroner’s Office. Fortunately, the bus was carrying eight children from the Northwestern School Corporation, none of whom were injured in the accident. Lopez sustained minor injuries and received treatment at the scene.
Authorities from the Indiana State Police have indicated that there is no evidence to suggest that alcohol or drugs played a role in the crash. The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident is ongoing, as law enforcement agencies and emergency responders conduct a thorough review of the events leading to this tragic loss.
The Northwestern School Corporation has expressed its sorrow over Esparza’s death and has extended condolences to his family. In response to the incident, the school district has announced that counseling services will be made available to students and staff members affected by the tragedy. The district is committed to supporting its community during this difficult time and is actively cooperating with ongoing investigations.
This incident has raised concerns regarding safety protocols in construction zones, particularly regarding traffic management and the visibility of workers. Traffic control measures are designed to protect both construction personnel and the traveling public, emphasizing the importance of maintaining awareness and adherence to road safety rules. The collaboration between traffic enforcement and construction management plays a crucial role in minimizing accidents in such active work environments.
As information continues to emerge, the community of Kokomo and surrounding areas are left mourning the loss of Aaron Esparza, a dedicated worker who was contributing to essential infrastructure efforts at the time of his death. The impact of this incident will likely spark discussions on improving safety measures in construction zones and ensuring the well-being of all road users.
Funeral arrangements for Esparza have yet to be announced, and the investigation by local authorities remains underway as they piece together the details of this unfortunate accident.
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Additional Resources
- WTHR
- Wikipedia: Kokomo, Indiana
- WISH-TV
- Google Search: construction worker accident Kokomo
- Fox 59
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Indiana
- WRTV
- Google News: Kokomo accidents
- Fox 59: Woman Hit by Car
- Kokomo Lantern
Author: STAFF HERE BALTIMORE WRITER
BALTIMORE STAFF WRITER The BALTIMORE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBaltimore.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Baltimore, Baltimore County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Baltimore Book Festival, Preakness Stakes, and Artscape. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Baltimore Chamber of Commerce and Visit Baltimore, plus leading businesses in shipping and healthcare that power the local economy such as the Port of Baltimore and Johns Hopkins Medicine. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Maryland's dynamic landscape.
