OSCEOLA, Ind. (WNDU) – WNDU 16 News Now has obtained multiple videos that show a car passing a Penn-Harris-Madison school bus directly in front of two kids who were trying to board it.
It happened just before 7:45 a.m. Tuesday on Ash Road in Osceola.
As you can see in the videos, which we have combined into one clip above, the kids were about to board the bus when a car drove onto the shoulder, on the side where kids enter the bus.
You can also watch the original doorbell video of the incident below:
The Penn-Harris-Madison School Corporation’s Transportation Department is looking into the matter. The department’s director, Brandon Tugmon, says the district has recently seen an uptick in stop arm violations.
“We have seen a trend here recently within the last couple of years, in the school year for 2023 to 2024 we averaged about 14 stop arm violations a month. Unfortunately, this year that has increased from August to January where we have averaged approximately 30. So, we have doubled the amount of stop arm violations,” Tugmon told WNDU 16 News Now. “We are very grateful to have the stop arm cameras ability in that relationship with St. Joe County, Mishawaka police, but our approach has to be reactive. Unfortunately for us, when an event takes place it’s after. That’s when we are able to gather our information and work with the prosecutor’s office.”
Tugmon adds that drivers need to be mindful when they’re out that kids are also out getting on and off school buses.
“Really the biggest thing that would be helpful for everyone is for you to be proactive yourself and be diligent of your own safety,” he said. “Pay attention when you see the big yellow bus and be mindful that there are kids in every morning and afternoon and oftentimes middle of the day getting on and off the bus. When in doubt, stop.”
The St. Joseph County Police Department has launched an investigation into the incident, and police say they need your help identifying the driver and suspect vehicle.
The vehicle is described as a red Dodge Charger with very dark tinted windows and possibly a black stripe down the side. The driver is described as a Black female who is approximately 5′4″ with long braids (some red).
If you witnessed the incident, you’re asked to reach out to St. Joe County police by emailing [email protected] or by calling 574-235-9032 (ext. 6440).
In the meantime, it’s worth a reminder to know when you need to stop for school buses.
Two-lane road
If you are on a two-lane street and a school bus stops, you must stop no matter what lane you’re in. That one is pretty easy… but it’s not all so straight forward.
Multi-lane road (paved across)
What about if you’re on a multi-lane street with no median? Well, it’s actually the same thing. If a school bus stops, you need to stop, no matter what lane you’re in.
Divided highway
The only time you can keep driving if a school bus stops is if you’re separated from the bus by grass or a median on a divided highway. You can see in the image below that does not apply to the cars on the same side of the road.
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