Tragedy for Chippewa Falls

Shortly after 2 a.m. this morning, a bus carrying members of the Chippewa Falls Senior High marching band and chaperones was rear ended by a semi on I-94 near Osseo, killing at least 5. The band was returning fromt he state band competition at the University of Wisconsin Whitewater. The Chippewa Herald is reporting the coroner was still on the scene of the accident at 10 a.m. this morning. Details are sketchy in all reports right now. Our condolences to the friends and families of those who have died.

Update 1
WEAU TV is reporting the bus collided with a jackknifed semi as it came over a hill, and also that at least 6 have died.

Update 2
Just spoke with someone back in Chippewa Falls. This individual said the accident was head on, with the semi coming from the eastbound lane. The bus that was hit was carrying chaperones, faculty, and staff. At least 6 are dead. Some names are confirmed, but information on that is not being released pending the informing of next of kin.

Update 3
WCCO television has up to date coverage.

Correction to Update 2
WCCO has just interviewed a State Trooper. The semi and the bus had both been traveling westbound on I-94. The semi driver lost control of his vehicle and had jackknifed. The tour bus then hit the jackknifed semi.

Update 4
The current number of fatalities is 5, not 6. Also, JSOnline interviews a student who was on one of the following buses here.