URGENT UPDATE: A tragic incident unfolded in Verona, NY today as a school bus driver suffered a medical emergency, leading to a fatal crash into a snowbank. The crash occurred at approximately 12:25 p.m. on State Route 31 and State Route 365, according to authorities.
The driver, whose identity has not yet been released, was operating a bus owned by First Student under contract with the Rome City School District. Eyewitness accounts from law enforcement reveal that the driver collapsed while heading westbound, causing the bus to veer off the road.
A second bus driver and a school bus aide were onboard during the incident. They immediately attempted to regain control, called 911, and initiated CPR on the driver. The bus driver was rushed to Oneida Health Hospital but was sadly pronounced dead upon arrival.
In a statement, Trooper Jennifer Jiron confirmed that no students were aboard at the time of the crash, and the two other individuals on the bus were unharmed. Fortunately, no significant damage was reported to the bus itself.
This devastating event highlights the unpredictable nature of medical emergencies and their potential impact on the community. As authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding this incident, residents are left in shock.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as we gather further information.
