Rollins man killed when bus, trucks collide

A collision between a school bus and two trucks south of Rollins last Thursday morning claimed the life of 54-year-old Dennis Perez. The accident occurred around 7 a.m. Dec. 1 near the intersection of Hwy. 93 and Mellow Cove.

The bus driver, a 61-year-old Polson woman, and her only passenger, a 74-year-old Ronan man, both sustained injuries and were transported to Logan Health in Kalispell.

According to a report from the Montana Highway Patrol, the bus driver was northbound when she lost control on a curve and crossed the center line. Two southbound vehicles collided with the bus, and Perez, who was driving a Dodge Ram, was killed. A Kalispell man, who was driving the second vehicle, a Chevy Silverado, was injured and transported to Logan Health.

The crash is under investigation by the Highway Patrol, which reports that roads in the area were slick and snowy at the time of the collision. The Lake County Sheriff/Coroner’s Office is investigating the cause and manner of death, and has sent the body to the Montana Forensic Science Division for an autopsy.

In a press release, the Lake County Sheriff’s Office offered condolences to the family and friends of Mr. Perez.