Councillors have called for answers over the bus crash which left five people seriously injured after it plunged into the River Itchen — but say police must be allowed to complete a thorough investigation.
The crash happened on Bishopstoke Road on June 26, 2025, when a bus carrying students from Barton Peveril Sixth Form College left the carriageway and ended up in a shallow part of the River Itchen.
There were 19 passengers on board, along with the driver.
Two people, including the 69-year-old driver and a 16-year-old girl, suffered serious injuries and were taken to hospital. Three other students also suffered serious injuries, while 15 sustained minor injuries.
A Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary spokesperson said: "I can confirm the investigation is ongoing."
The bus had to be recovered during a complex overnight operation, with Bishopstoke Road reopening at around 1am the following morning.
Police launched a Serious Collision Investigation and appealed for witnesses and dashcam footage.
At the time, officers stressed they were keeping an open mind about what caused the crash and said all lines of enquiry would be followed.
The latest update from police comes as a number of local councillors have spoken out about the incident with some saying that those on board deserve to know why they were put in danger.
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Bishopstoke councillor, Karen Caws said: "We still don't know the circumstances of why the bus crashed - there has been a lot of rumour and hearsay but nothing confirmed.
"My concern is for the bus driver and for those students affected - some clarification on what happened is certainly needed - it's really worrying what happened."
Bluestar has told the Echo it has complied with police in every step of its investigation.
Councillor Steve Broomfield said: "I can see why everyone wants answers but I would rather the investigation take longer and be done thoroughly.
"We need to make sure everything is done right to prevent such a terrible accident being able to happen again."
Bishopstoke councillor, Gin Tidridge, added: "This was a terrifying and shocking crash. It would be great to find out exactly what happened.
"I wouldn't want the process to be rushed in any way - the priority must be making sure it never happens again."
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