Charter Bus Collision in Port Arthur Sends Dozens of Plant Workers to Hospitals

A serious accident involving three charter buses has left more than 60 people injured in Port Arthur, Texas.

The buses, operated by Hotard Coaches, were carrying plant workers on their way home. While thankfully there were no fatalities, dozens involved were treated for injuries. Emergency officials confirm a large-scale response was necessary, with patients taken to several area hospitals.

According to Port Arthur Police, the wreck began when a dump truck suddenly cut into the lane in front of the first bus in a construction zone on State Highway 73, causing it to slow. The second bus was able to reduce speed as well, but the third bus could not stop in time, leading to a chain reaction.

Port Arthur Police and Fire, along with City Ambulance, responded to the accident scene. Ambulance crews transported dozens of individuals to three nearby hospitals—The Medical Center of Southeast Texas, Baptist Hospital, and CHRISTUS St. Elizabeth Hospital—for evaluation and treatment.

No citations have been issued so far, but investigators are piecing together evidence—including onboard video—to gain a clearer picture of how the crash unfolded and whether any specific violations occurred.

About Hotard Coaches

Hotard Coaches is known for providing motorcoach services across Texas and Louisiana. They have worked with oil and gas companies, industrial facilities, and construction firms to shuttle workers to and from job sites. Their services often include running regular “park and ride” operations, lot management, and large-scale passenger transportation for major employers. With a history spanning more than 50 years, they are a familiar presence along the Gulf Coast—particularly in areas like Port Arthur where many residents rely on industrial jobs at local refineries and plants.

Plant Workers & Bus Transportation

For many plant and refinery employees, especially those working long or rotating shifts, charter buses offer a practical and efficient way to travel. These buses typically pick up groups of employees from set locations and transport them directly to refinery or plant gates. The added convenience can be critical for workers who might otherwise face lengthy drives after grueling shifts.

However, any accident involving these buses can have wide-ranging implications. In addition to risking serious injuries, collisions of this nature can disrupt the operations of local industries, and even put families in sudden financial and emotional hardship if a worker is severely hurt. Ensuring the safety of employee transport falls not only on the bus operators but also on employers and local traffic authorities who must coordinate routes, schedules, and construction zones effectively.

Accidents like this serve as sobering reminders of how quickly a normal work commute can turn dangerous. We will be following the details of this incident and the investigation as they develop. Our thoughts are with everyone involved, and we wish all those injured a swift recovery.