Kokomo, October 7, 2025
News Summary
A construction worker directing traffic in Kokomo was struck and killed by a school bus. The 31-year-old victim was overseeing traffic flow when the accident occurred, involving another vehicle colliding with the bus. Fortunately, none of the children on board were injured. The incident has sparked discussions on construction zone safety as the local community mourns the loss of a dedicated worker.
Kokomo, Indiana – A tragic accident on October 6, 2023, has claimed the life of a construction worker, Aaron Esparza, aged 31. Esparza was directing traffic in a construction zone when he was struck by a school bus around 3:30 p.m. at the intersection of State Road 22 and County Road 400 East, located east of Kokomo.
Esparza was employed at the construction site, overseeing the flow of traffic when the incident occurred. A 35-year-old woman, Tara D. Lopez, from Kokomo, was driving the northbound school bus, transporting eight children from the Northwestern School Corporation. Reports indicate that as Lopez attempted to cross State Road 22, her bus was impacted on the driver’s side by a 2008 Dodge Ram truck. The truck, driven by 72-year-old Rolland Brent Mcquiston from Windfall, Indiana, was traveling eastbound on State Road 22 at the time of the collision.
The force of the impact caused the school bus to veer off and strike Esparza. He was subsequently pronounced dead at the scene by officials from the Howard County Coroner’s Office. Fortunately, none of the children on the bus suffered any injuries, and Lopez received treatment for minor injuries incurred during the accident.
Preliminary investigations by the Indiana State Police suggest that neither alcohol nor drugs played a role in the incident. In response to the situation, the Northwestern School Corporation expressed deep sadness regarding Esparza’s death. The school district has conveyed condolences to his family and stated that counseling services will be made available to students and staff affected by this incident.
Investigation and Community Response
The Northwestern School Corporation has committed to fully cooperating with law enforcement and emergency responders as they carry out their investigation into the accident. Local community members, as well as those directly involved, are mourning the loss of Esparza, who was well-regarded for his work in the area.
Background on the Incident
Traffic accidents involving construction workers can often lead to severe consequences, underscoring the need for enhanced safety measures in construction zones. According to local authorities, traffic control personnel like Esparza play a crucial role in safeguarding the safety of both workers and passing motorists while ensuring a smooth flow of traffic around construction sites.
In light of this incident, awareness around construction site safety continues to be a topic of discussion among both industry professionals and officials in the Kokomo area. Communities are urged to stay vigilant and respectful of construction zones to prevent further tragedies.
Key Facts of the Incident:
- Date of Incident: October 6, 2023
- Location: Intersection of State Road 22 and County Road 400 East, Kokomo, Indiana
- Victim: Aaron Esparza, 31
- Bus Driver: Tara D. Lopez, 35
- Truck Driver: Rolland Brent Mcquiston, 72
- Children on Bus: 8 (none injured)
- Investigating Authority: Indiana State Police
FAQ
What happened in Kokomo, Indiana?
A construction worker, Aaron Esparza, was killed after being struck by a school bus while directing traffic in a construction zone.
Who was involved in the incident?
The incident involved Aaron Esparza, the bus driver Tara D. Lopez, and the truck driver Rolland Brent Mcquiston.
Were there any injuries to the children on the bus?
No, all eight children on the bus were unharmed.
What actions are being taken in response to the incident?
The Northwestern School Corporation is providing counseling services for affected students and is cooperating with law enforcement conducting an investigation.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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
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