Man Accused of Nearly Hitting Student Exiting Bus in New Baltimore

Poughkeepsie driver charged with reckless endangerment and other offenses after allegedly passing stopped school bus

Mar. 11, 2026 at 7:04pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

New York State Police have arrested a 51-year-old Poughkeepsie man named Neal V. Daley for allegedly driving past a stopped school bus with its emergency lights and stop bar extended, nearly hitting an 11-year-old student who was exiting the bus. Daley is facing multiple charges including first-degree reckless endangerment, endangering the welfare of a child, and reckless driving.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the importance of drivers obeying school bus safety laws and the potential dangers students face when drivers fail to stop for a bus. Passing a stopped school bus is extremely hazardous and can lead to serious injuries or even fatalities, especially in areas with high pedestrian traffic.

The details

According to authorities, the incident occurred on Friday afternoon around 3 p.m. on Route 9W in New Baltimore, New York. The Ravena Coeymans Selkirk School District bus had stopped to drop off a student and had its emergency lights and stop bar extended when Daley, driving a 2015 Mazda, allegedly passed a car stopped behind the bus and continued onto the shoulder to pass the bus. An 11-year-old student was exiting the bus at the time and had to run off the shoulder into a nearby driveway to avoid being hit by Daley's vehicle. Daley then allegedly fled the scene, but was later identified, located, and arrested by state police.

  • The incident occurred on Friday, March 10, 2026 around 3 p.m.
  • Daley is scheduled to appear in Coxsackie Town Court on April 14, 2026 at 2 p.m.

The players

Neal V. Daley

A 51-year-old man from Poughkeepsie, New York who was arrested and charged for allegedly passing a stopped school bus and nearly hitting an 11-year-old student.

Ravena Coeymans Selkirk School District

The school district whose bus was involved in the incident and whose student was nearly hit by Daley's vehicle.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must ensure the safety of our students and hold reckless drivers accountable for their actions.”

— Superintendent, Ravena Coeymans Selkirk School District

What’s next

Daley is scheduled to appear in Coxsackie Town Court on April 14, 2026 at 2 p.m. where a judge will determine if he will be allowed out on bail.

The takeaway

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of drivers obeying school bus safety laws and being vigilant around areas with high pedestrian traffic, especially when children are present. Reckless driving that endangers students can have severe consequences and must be taken seriously by law enforcement and the community.