Decatur, Tennessee – A 7-year-old girl and the driver of the school bus she was riding in were killed in an accident Tuesday evening.

The crash happened in eastern Tennessee in Meigs County on Highway 58, reports WDEF. A utility service vehicle lost control and slid into the oncoming lane of traffic in front of the school bus.

“The bus driver had no opportunity to stop to avoid the crash,” said Tennessee Highway Patrol Lt. Bill Miller.

The school bus was carrying 22 children. In addition to the two individuals who died, seven other children were injured, five of whom were airlifted to a regional hospital, reports CBS News.

The driver of the utility service vehicle was treated for minor injuries.

In response to the school bus accident, Gov. Bill Lee said on Twitter, “Maria and I are deeply saddened by the loss of life and injuries sustained from the school bus crash in Meigs County today. We offer prayers of comfort to the families who are hurting tonight and our full support to the community in the days ahead.”

Commissioner Penny Schwinn issued the following statement regarding the crash:

“I and the entire staff at the Tennessee Department of Education are deeply saddened to hear about the fatal bus crash in Meigs County earlier this afternoon. No words can express our sympathies for those lives that were lost. We send our deepest condolences to the students, families, school staff and leaders, district staff and the entire Meigs County community affected by this tragic accident and wish healing for all those injured. The department has communicated with district leaders and staff in Meigs County and surrounding areas and is mobilizing to support this community in safety response and services.”

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