URGENT UPDATE: A school bus driver tragically died after suffering a medical emergency that caused his bus to crash into a snowbank in Verona, New York, earlier today. The incident occurred at approximately 12:25 p.m. at the intersection of State Routes 31 and 365, according to officials from the New York State Police.
The driver, whose identity has not yet been disclosed, was operating a bus contracted by the Rome City School District and owned by First Student. Reports indicate he was traveling westbound on State Route 31 when he suddenly collapsed behind the wheel, causing the bus to veer off the road and into a snowbank.
Two other individuals were aboard the bus at the time of the incident—a fellow bus driver and a bus aide. They quickly sprang into action, attempting to regain control of the vehicle and calling 911 for assistance. In a desperate effort to save the driver, they initiated CPR until emergency responders arrived.
The bus driver was rushed to Oneida Health Hospital in Oneida, where he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. Thankfully, the other two occupants of the bus were unharmed, and no students were on board during the incident. No damage was reported to the bus itself.
This tragic event has left the local community in shock as they mourn the loss of a dedicated bus driver. Authorities are investigating the circumstances of the medical emergency that led to this devastating crash.
As this story develops, further updates will follow on the condition of the driver and the investigation into the incident. Stay tuned for more information as it becomes available.
