News Summary

The Medina High School Girls Lacrosse Team faced a major upheaval after their bus caught fire while returning home from a spring break trip. All 21 members onboard, including players and coaches, managed to escape unharmed thanks to quick actions that prioritized safety. Local firefighters provided crucial support during the chaotic moment. The team, despite losing equipment, remains positive and grateful for the community’s assistance as they look forward to continuing their season.

Medina High School Girls Lacrosse Team Faces Unexpected Turn of Events Following Bus Fire

In a shocking twist of fate, the Medina High School Girls Lacrosse Team was involved in a bus fire while returning home from their spring break trip to the Carolinas. These talented athletes have been making this trip annually for the past four years, enjoying the opportunity to showcase their skills in both South Carolina and North Carolina. On March 27, 2025, as they made their way back to Medina, Ohio, a tense situation unfolded.

A Dramatic Scene on Interstate 77

As the clock approached 7 p.m., the team was traveling down Interstate 77 near Charleston, West Virginia, when the unexpected occurred. Senior player Maggie O’Neil, who was seated at the rear of the bus, was the first to notice a faint smell of smoke. Her quick thinking sparked immediate concern among team members. Soon after, junior player Molly Gilbert observed the bus driver struggling with the vehicle when he began hearing unusual noises from the engine.

Things escalated when a motorist traveling in the southbound lanes noticed the bus was on fire and urgently alerted the team. Their hearts racing, everyone on board had to evacuate at once. The coaches stepped up during this chaotic moment, calmly instructing the players to leave all personal belongings behind. With nerves and adrenaline running high, some players were tempted to grab their phones and shoes, but the pressing focus remained on getting off the bus as quickly as possible.

Once outside, the situation became much more serious as flames began shooting from the front of the bus. Miraculously, all 21 individuals on board—including 15 players, two coaches, and their bus driver—escaped without any injuries, thanks to the quick action of everyone involved.

Community Support and Quick Response

As the scene unfolded, local volunteer firefighters from Sissonville rushed to the rescue, quickly offering assistance to the shaken team. Not only did they ensure everyone was safe, but they also took the girls back to their fire station, providing ample food and drinks to help them recover from the stressful experience. It was a gesture that reminded the team of the generous spirit of their community.

Maggie O’Neil’s father, Toby, received the alarming news while at a nearby lakehouse and quickly made his way to the site of the fire. He was among the many supporters who cheered on the team during this unexpected situation. A replacement bus was dispatched by the charter company to facilitate the team’s journey home, and by the time they rolled into Medina at 1 a.m. on March 28, they were exhausted but relieved.

Looking Ahead

As the Medina High School Girls Lacrosse Team looks to move forward, it’s important to note that an investigation is underway. The charter bus company, along with insurance investigators, is currently examining a local shop where the bus was serviced earlier in the week, identifying any possible causes for the fire.

Despite the loss of equipment, including jerseys and lacrosse sticks that were consumed by the flames, the team remains optimistic. With great appreciation, the girls have expressed their gratitude towards their coaches and the firefighters whose swift actions played a vital role in ensuring everyone’s safety. As the team bands together, O’Neil highlighted how this experience has drawn them even closer, and they are determined to make the most of the rest of their season.

In the end, while this unforeseen event was undoubtedly a scary experience for the Medina High School Girls Lacrosse Team, their resilience and community support prove that no challenge is too great when you have each other by your side.

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