Dante Jones, a 15-year-old sophomore at Winder-Barrow High School was struck by a car Wednesday morning as he crossed Miles Patrick Road to board his school bus.
Several middle and high school students were on the bus and witnessed the accident.
Jones was transported to Athens Regional Medical Center with non-life threatening injuries according to Winder Police Department spokesperson Capt. Dennis Dorsey.
WBHS student struck by car
The initial investigation indicates that the driver of the 1999 Mercedes Benz may have been distracted and failed to notice the bus’ flashing lights and stop sign. The driver was interviewed and released from the scene, but investigators with the department say charges will likely be filed.
Ofc. Tim Harrell of the Winder Police Department responded to the scene along with WBHS principal Al Darby, transportation director Dr. James Cantrell and assistant superintendent Rob Johnson.
The students and bus driver were taken to Winder-Barrow High School where they were offered support from school counselors.
Lisa Leighton, public relations coordinator for Barrow County Schools, said she could not recall a similar incident in her 12 years with the school system. Leighton said the school system does an excellent job educating the students, drivers and the public on school bus and bus stop safety.
Jones has an older sibling at Winder-Barrow High and a younger sibling at the Early Learning Center.
School officials continue to monitor Jones condition.
Ofc. Tim Harrell of the Winder Police Department responded to the scene along with WBHS principal Al Darby, transportation director Dr. James Cantrell and assistant superintendent Rob Johnson.
The students and bus driver were taken to Winder-Barrow High School where they were offered support from school counselors.
Lisa Leighton, public relations coordinator for Barrow County Schools, said she could not recall a similar incident in her 12 years with the school system. Leighton said the school system does an excellent job educating the students, drivers and the public on school bus and bus stop safety.
Jones has an older sibling at Winder-Barrow High and a younger sibling at the Early Learning Center.
School officials continue to monitor Jones condition.
Love,
the class of '12!
(:
Sparr, I agree with you about people needing to take more caution when they see a school bus or kids on/near a road whether waiting for a schoolbus or just playing out in their yard close to the street.
As a fellow bus driver, my mind can only try to comprehend what the bus driver must have been feeling at the time. That driver had to sit helplessly in the seat and watch this careless and barbaric act. The bus driver will also need the support of the school and community.
PLEASE when you see a school bus, take your time. Don't rush. We are only going to be stopped for just a few seconds. And always remember: You CAN NOT buy nor replace what we transport.