Spearman ISD Students Safe After Van Overturns in Crash Near Desdemon

SPEARMAN — A Spearman ISD van carrying students was involved in a two-vehicle crash Friday afternoon in Erath County near the community of Desdemona.

As news of the incident began circulating on social media, concern quickly spread across the Spearman community. The Reporter-Statesman contacted the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office in Abilene to verify the details being shared and provide accurate information as the situation unfolded.

According to DPS, the crash occurred on April 3, 2026, at approximately 2:23 p.m. at the intersection of Farm to Market Road 8 (FM 8) and State Highway 16 (SH 16).

A preliminary investigation found that the Spearman ISD van was traveling west on FM 8 when the driver disregarded a stop sign at the intersection and was struck by a southbound passenger car on SH 16.

A photo obtained by the Reporter-Statesman shows the Spearman ISD van overturned at the scene, indicating the severity of the crash.

All students and the driver of the van were transported to Stephenville Hospital with reported minor injuries, according to DPS. The driver of the passenger car sustained serious bodily injuries and was airlifted to Harris Hospital in Fort Worth for treatment.

Spearman ISD released a statement confirming that a district van was involved in the accident.

“Thankfully, all student passengers and the driver are believed not to be injured, although students are being medically evaluated out of an abundance of caution,” the district stated. “All parents have been notified.”

The district also noted that Superintendent Layman traveled to Desdemona to assist and ensure students and staff were safely transported home.

Initial local reports indicated a significant emergency response and temporary road closures at the intersection following the crash.

The investigation remains ongoing.