CHP Says Speed To Blame For Deadly Bus Crash Near Yosemite

OAKHURST, Madera County (CBS / AP) – The California Highway Patrol say speed caused a bus carrying students from China to crash and hit a tree near Yosemite National Park, killing a 13-year-old passenger.

CHP Officer Kaci Lutz said Monday that the driver hasn't been cited in the ongoing investigation. The accident happened Saturday after the group of students and their chaperones visited the park.

Lutz says the bus was travelling between 35 and 40 mph, when it entered a curve and slid off the road.

Lutz says the speed was unsafe for the bus, despite the posted speed limit of 55 mph.

Investigators interviewed witnesses, and they are inspecting the bus to rule out mechanical problems.

The bus held 22 people, including the driver, who sustained minor injuries.

Officials say a second 13-year-old girl remains hospitalized in critical condition. Others injured in the crash have been released.

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