Jose Solis hurt in two-vehicle crash on U.S. Highway 97A

Bus carrying students struck truck that crossed the centerline north of Knapps Hill Tunnel

December 06, 2025 | Chelan, WA

A tragic collision on Dec. 6 claimed one life and left two people injured when a pickup truck crossed the centerline and struck a school bus carrying high school wrestlers in Chelan County.

Jose Solis, 39, of Wenatchee, was injured when a school bus carrying wrestling team members veered into an oncoming pickup on U.S. Highway 97A just north of Knapps Hill Tunnel.

What Happened in the Crash?

The incident unfolded around 7:12 a.m. on U.S. Highway 97A, just north of the Knapps Hill Tunnel. Authorities report that a 2003 Ford Ranger veered into the opposite lane, colliding head-on with a Cascade School District bus driven by Jose Solis, 39, of Wenatchee. The bus was transporting the Cascade High School wrestling team back from a match in Chelan.

• Date and Time: Dec. 6, 2025, approximately 7:12 a.m.
• Location: U.S. Highway 97A, north of Knapps Hill Tunnel, Chelan County.
• Vehicles Involved: 2003 Ford Ranger pickup truck and Cascade School District bus.
• Injuries: Jose Solis sustained injuries and was treated at Lake Chelan Health. The Ford Ranger driver was airlifted to a Seattle hospital with injuries. The driver's passenger was pronounced dead at the scene.
• Passengers on Bus: Eight students, ages 12 to 17, were unharmed but evaluated at Lake Chelan Health.
• Investigation: The crash is under active review by local authorities.

None of the young athletes on board suffered injuries, providing some relief amid the chaos.

Why Do Head-On Crashes Like This Occur?

Head-on collisions, though less common than other accidents, pose severe risks due to the direct crash forces involved. Factors such as veering across lanes can stem from distracted driving, impairment, or road conditions.

These figures underscore the deadly potential of such incidents on highways like 97A.

Legal Insights

In cases such as this, an independent investigation plays a vital role in uncovering the facts. National legal analysts emphasize the need for thorough evidence collection to determine liability.

“An attorney can collect the proper evidence to help prove negligence, which requires a variety of resources,” said Candice Bond, managing partner of Bond Legal. “In addition to the diligent work of law enforcement, an attorney can re-interview important witnesses, analyze evidence from the scene, and obtain records of a potentially liable party.”

• Preserve evidence promptly, as time-sensitive details can fade.
• Re-examine witness statements for accuracy.
• Secure records from all involved parties to build a strong case.

Stefano Formica, of counsel at Bond Legal, highlights options for those affected:

“Injured victims involved in a collision often seek a personal injury claim to cover the cost of medical bills, future medical care, loss of income, emotional trauma, and pain and suffering. Insurance companies can be notoriously unconcerned with the mounting costs that an injured party may accrue. An attorney can help.”

This approach ensures victims receive fair compensation without direct ties to specific cases.

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