A quick thinking school bus driver in Cleveland Heights, Ohio safely evacuated 15 middle school students after the vehicle caught fire during the morning route on Thursday.
The fire started behind one of the rear wheels of Bus No. 21 while taking students to Monticello Middle School. Cleveland Heights University Heights City School District Superintendent Liz Kirby said the driver, who asked to remain anonymous, acted quickly to get all students off the bus before flames spread.
“I can’t express how relieved I am that no one was hurt, and I am incredibly grateful for the quick response from the driver,” Kirby said in a statement.
The driver told the superintendent that yearly bus evacuation drills helped students to react properly during the emergency.
“I spoke with the driver today, and they credited the annual bus evacuation drills they do with students with preparing them,” Kirby noted.
Kirby also praised the students for staying calm during the scary situation. “I also must credit the students for reacting so calmly and following the driver’s instructions to get to safety,” she added.
Photos from the Cleveland Heights Fire Department show how serious the fire was. Images reveal flames shooting from the bus windows as dark smoke poured out.
The bus appears tipped to one side in some photos, with fire covering almost the entire vehicle. The heat even caused a nearby tree to catch fire, and homes close by were temporarily covered in smoke as firefighters worked to put out the flames.
Fire officials reported they “quickly brought under control” the blaze, though not before the bus was badly damaged. No students, the driver, or emergency workers were hurt.
The cause of the fire is still under investigation. The school district is working with the Cleveland Heights Fire Department and the State Highway Patrol to find what started the blaze.
“I am truly thankful for the safety of our students and thoughtful action from the adults who care for them,” Superintendent Kirby stated.
We thank God for giving the bus driver and children the wisdom to act wisely during this dangerous situation.
WATCH: Bus Driver Saves Students from Fire
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