Bus, vehicle collide in Tampa; no students hurt

The driver of a red KIA Spectra, above, was flown to Tampa General Hospital after his car crossed the centerline of Harney Road just north of Terrace River Drive and crashed head on into a southbound school bus. [Ken Helle | Times]

TAMPA -- Hillsborough Sheriff's officials are on scene of a head-on collision between a car and a school bus at Harney Road and Sligh Avenue.

Officials said no students were aboard the bus and no injuries were reported to the bus driver, Bridgette Stewart, 35, of Seffner.

Denny Hernandez, the driver of the red Kia Spectra, was pinned inside after crossing the center line of Harney Road and smashing into the front of the southbound bus, authorities said.

Emergency officials were called to cut him free. Hernandez, 29, of Tampa, was flown to Tampa General Hospital with life-threatening injuries, authorities said.

Authorities say the intersection and surrounding area may be closed for a short time as rescue efforts continue.

Check our traffic section for updates on conditions in the area.

-- Casey Cora, Ken Helle and Rodney Thrash Times staff writers