MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (WBTW) – A vehicle crash involving a Coast RTA bus Tuesday morning sent 21 people to the hospital. The crash occurred around 9 a.m. at the Robert Grissom Parkway and Hwy 501 intersection.

Lt. Joey Crosby with the Myrtle Beach Police Department confirms 21 people were transported to area hospitals for treatment following the crash.

According to Lieutenant Christian Sliker with Myrtle Beach Fire and Rescue, the crash involved at least one entrapment. All victims were transported to Grand Strand Regional Medical Center for treatment. Lieutenant Sliker adds that multiple agencies responded to the crash to aid in assisting the victims. Murrells Inlet and Horry County Fire and Rescue assisted Myrtle Beach Fire and Rescue on scene. Ambulances from several privately owned companies also assisted.

While the collision is still under investigation, Lt. Crosby says a white Lexus was traveling north on US 501 and attempted to turn left onto Robert Grissom Parkway. The Lexus failed to yield the right of way and was struck by a Coast RTA bus that was traveling south on US 501. Witnesses add that there was a baby in the back seat of the Lexus.

Brian Piascik, General Manager Coast RTA, released a statement following the incident assuring passengers of Coast RTA busses and other drivers that the transportation unit is doing everything possible to aid local police in the investigation.

“At this time, Coast RTA is continuing to work with the City of Myrtle Beach Police Department regarding their investigation of the incident. We will follow our internal procedures regarding traffic incidents. These procedures are followed by operations for each traffic incident, regardless of its severity,” said Brian Piascik, General Manager Coast RTA. “We are committed to providing safe, reliable, clean, courteous and affordable mass public transportation for our passengers and we take that commitment seriously. As summer traffic continues to increase along the Grand Strand, we urge everyone to execute every precaution while driving, riding or walking along our roadways.”

The scene was cleared at approximately 11 a.m. Tuesday. 

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