In a chilling turn of events, rescue officials have confirmed that one of the children involved in the accident is related to international football superstar Cristiano Ronaldo.

The Accident: What Happened

According to the Florida Highway Patrol, the school bus was traveling on Interstate 75 Southbound when it suddenly lost control, veered off the road, and overturned down an embankment. Witnesses say it appeared that the driver attempted to swerve to avoid a collision with a truck, causing the bus to flip multiple times before coming to a stop on its side.

Emergency responders rushed to the scene within minutes. Aerial footage shows a chaotic and heartbreaking scene: children being pulled from windows, parents arriving in panic, and several stretchers being carried to waiting ambulances.

“It’s one of the worst school transportation accidents we’ve seen in years,” said Fire Chief Mark Diaz. “There are confirmed fatalities and critical injuries. Our rescue teams are still working tirelessly.”

Tragic Toll: Casualties and Injuries

So far, authorities have confirmed at least 6 deaths, including both students and a teaching assistant. Over a dozen others have been hospitalized, with some in extremely critical condition.

Among the victims is reportedly a child connected to Cristiano Ronaldo, one of the most iconic athletes in the world. While privacy laws prevent officials from releasing full names, multiple sources have confirmed that the child is a relative or possibly one of Ronaldo’s own children, who was attending the international school while Ronaldo is believed to be temporarily residing in the U.S. for an off-season training program.

Statement From Ronaldo’s Representatives

Cristiano Ronaldo’s management team released a brief and somber statement just moments ago:

“Our family is devastated by the tragic incident involving the school bus in Florida. At this time, we are still awaiting full medical evaluations and ask for privacy during this unimaginable moment.”

Ronaldo has not yet spoken publicly but is believed to be en route to Florida from Europe.

Nation and Fans React in Shock

News of the crash, and its connection to Ronaldo, has made headlines globally. Social media platforms are flooded with tributes, prayers, and calls for road safety reforms.

#PrayForTheChildren and #StayStrongRonaldo have both become trending hashtags within the hour.

One Twitter user wrote:

“This is beyond heartbreaking. Children, dreams, futures — all shattered. And Ronaldo… no parent should ever face this.”

Ongoing Investigation

Florida authorities have launched a full investigation into the cause of the crash. The bus company is cooperating, and the driver — who survived — is currently being questioned. Weather and road conditions at the time were reportedly clear, leaving mechanical failure or human error as possible factors.

Meanwhile, grief counselors and crisis support teams have been deployed to the school and nearby hospitals to assist families and classmates.