Tragic bus crash in France: Driver under drug influence
On Thursday morning near Châteaudun, France, a tragic school bus accident occurred. A 15-year-old student died, and several children were injured. It was revealed that the 26-year-old driver was under the influence of drugs.
Just before 2 AM Eastern Time, the bus was transporting 35 students to schools in Châteaudun when it suddenly overturned. As a result, a 15-year-old high school student died, and approximately 30 children were injured.
Two children were seriously injured and taken to the hospital. The others received assistance at the scene.
The driver explained to the police that he was passing a vehicle that was driving too close to the dividing line, tried to avoid it, and ended up in a ditch.
The driver's drug test was positive
It was determined that the 26-year-old driver was not under the influence of alcohol. However, a test at the scene indicated the presence of drugs in his system. A blood sample was taken for confirmation. He was arrested and taken into custody.
Six rescue vehicles and about 40 firefighters were involved in the rescue operation. A special temporary medical facility was set up to assist the accident victims on-site.
Local authorities commended the bravery and composure of the older students on the bus. They immediately cared for the younger passengers, broke the bus windows, and assisted everyone in getting out.
The accident is being investigated. Data from the bus's tachograph are being analyzed. At the time of the accident, heavy rain was in the region.
Fabien Verdier, the mayor of Châteaudun, noted in an interview with BFMTV that the accident site is on a dangerous section of the road that had previously been reported as needing modernization.
