Ocean City school bus driver hailed a hero for saving students in fire
A city school bus driver is being praised as a hero for her quick thinking and actions that prevented any injuries when the bus she was driving caught fire on the Garden State Parkway on Tuesday afternoon.
The bus, transporting 10 students from Ocean City Intermediate School to Sea Isle City, burst into flames near milepost 20.6 around 2:34 p.m. Fortunately, all students were safely evacuated with the driver’s guidance, and no injuries were reported.
According to School Business Administrator Timothy E. Kelley, the driver’s heroic efforts and focus on the students’ safety were commendable. She was a true hero and showed the utmost care for our students, making sure they were all out of harm’s way after exiting the bus, Kelley expressed in a statement.
Chief Perry Coker of the Seaville Volunteer Fire Company reported that Upper Township EMS and the Marmora Volunteer Fire Company responded promptly to the scene, ensuring the situation was under control without any harm to the students.
Kelley also credited the students for their calm and composed response during the emergency, praising their quick reactions and cooperation in following the driver’s instructions to exit the bus swiftly.
We want to thank everyone for their quick thinking and smart response during the incident, Kelley stated. The students acted swiftly and calmly as they followed the driver’s directions to exit the bus as soon as a problem was identified. They should be commended, and we are thankful that everyone is safe.
The driver’s heroism and the collaborative efforts of all responders involved highlight the importance of preparedness during emergencies, especially when the safety of students is at stake. This incident serves as a reminder of the critical role that school bus drivers play in ensuring students’ well-being and safety, and the community is grateful for their dedication.
The students have returned safely home, and the school administration continues to prioritize their well-being.
Contact John O’Connor at 609-272-7261 or via email at joconnor@pressofac.com. Follow him on Twitter @acpressoconnor.
