Child Narrowly Avoids Being Hit by Passing Car at Albany School Bus Stop

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A 12-year-old student from the Ravena-Coeymans-Selkirk School District in Albany County, New York narrowly avoided being hit by a vehicle that illegally passed a stopped school bus, an incident that was captured on video. Authorities have charged the 51-year-old driver from Poughkeepsie with reckless endangerment, reckless driving, and endangering the welfare of a child, as well as multiple traffic violations.

Why it matters

This close call highlights the ongoing issue of drivers illegally passing stopped school buses in New York, which state data indicates happens around 50,000 times per day. Despite laws requiring drivers to stop when a school bus has its red lights flashing and stop arm extended, many continue to ignore these rules, putting children at serious risk.

The details

The incident occurred on March 6 as Wyatt Bunce was exiting his school bus and moving along the shoulder of the road. A vehicle approaching from behind passed the stopped bus on the right shoulder, which is illegal in New York. Wyatt was able to quickly move out of the way, narrowly avoiding being struck by the vehicle.

• The incident happened on March 6.
• The 51-year-old driver was charged following the incident.

What’s next

The driver is facing charges of reckless endangerment, reckless driving, and endangering the welfare of a child, as well as multiple traffic violations. The incident highlights the ongoing need for better enforcement and education around school bus safety laws in New York.