MARRERO, La. (WVUE) – An unsettling incident involving a school bus driver in Jefferson Parish has led to his resignation amidst allegations that he physically confronted a student from Marrero Middle School. The confrontation was recorded on a cellphone video on Monday, October 30, 2023.
The identity of the driver involved in the incident has not been disclosed. He was employed by First Student, the school bus contractor contracted by Jefferson Parish Schools. Following the incident, First Student acknowledged the situation and confirmed that the driver voluntarily resigned on the following Tuesday.
Footage taken by another student on the bus reveals the driver’s aggressive actions towards a student. The student attempted to vacate their seat, prompting the driver to forcefully push the student back while striking them on the head. As tensions escalated, the driver proceeded to pin the student against a bus window, allegedly choking them. A fellow student on the bus is heard yelling, “Get off of him.”
The video abruptly concludes after the student and the driver begin to walk towards the bus door. The circumstances leading up to the incident remain unclear.
A spokesperson for the bus company expressed their commitment to providing a safe environment on their school buses, condemning the driver’s behavior as unacceptable. The driver’s resignation was confirmed, and they refrained from offering further comments due to the ongoing investigation.
Jefferson Parish Schools also issued a statement, emphasizing their dedication to ensuring the safety and well-being of their students. They clarified that the bus driver was not an employee of Jefferson Parish Schools and promised to facilitate a secure learning environment for all students and staff. The school district is cooperating with the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office (JPSO) to ensure a thorough investigation takes place.
While the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office reported that no arrests have been made in connection with the incident, their Juvenile Division is actively investigating the matter.
First reported by Chris Welty for Fox8Live/WVUE
