Truck driver in fatal Hays CISD bus crash eligible for parole, but release unlikely

The driver who killed two people in a 2024 crash involving a school bus is up for parole, but experts say his chances are slim.

Apr. 20, 2026 at 1:54am

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An extreme close-up of a shattered car windshield reflecting a harsh, direct camera flash, conceptually illustrating the aftermath of a tragic vehicular accident.The aftermath of a devastating crash exposes the human cost of reckless driving and substance abuse.Buda Today

Jerry Hernandez, the truck driver convicted in a 2024 crash involving a Hays CISD school bus that killed two people and injured 51 others, is eligible for parole today, just two years into his 18-year sentence. However, a parole attorney says the odds of his release are extremely low, as Hernandez's actions were 'incredibly reckless' - he was under the influence of drugs and had little sleep before the crash. The Hays CISD superintendent has also protested Hernandez's parole eligibility, stating the community still grapples with the physical and emotional injuries from the incident.

Why it matters

This case highlights the devastating impact of impaired driving and the ongoing trauma felt by a community after a tragic accident involving a school bus. It also raises questions about parole policies for those convicted of such reckless behavior that results in loss of life.

The details

In March 2024, Jerry Hernandez was driving a concrete truck after using cocaine that morning, marijuana the night before, and getting only three hours of sleep in between. Authorities said he veered into oncoming traffic and slammed into a Hays CISD school bus carrying 45 children returning from a field trip. The bus flipped over, injuring 51 people in total. One child died, and an adult driving directly behind the bus also died.

  • Hernandez is eligible for parole today, April 20, 2026.
  • The fatal crash occurred in March 2024.

The players

Jerry Hernandez

The truck driver convicted in the 2024 crash involving a Hays CISD school bus that killed two people and injured 51 others. Hernandez was under the influence of drugs and had little sleep before the crash.

Dr. Eric Wright

The Hays CISD Superintendent who sent a letter to the Texas Department of Criminal Justice protesting Hernandez's parole eligibility, stating the community still grapples with the physical and emotional injuries from the incident.

Gary Cohen

A parole attorney at Gunter, Bennett & Anthes PC who described Hernandez's conduct leading to the crash as 'incredibly reckless behavior' and said his likelihood of being granted parole at his first review is 'extremely low to almost being nonexistent.'

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What they’re saying

“There are injuries, both physical and emotional, that will never heal from the vehicle crash that Jerry Hernandez caused.”

— Dr. Eric Wright, Hays CISD Superintendent

“He would likely have a condition that would not allow him to drive. He would probably have some kind of electronic monitoring device. He would be subject to all kind of drug and alcohol monitoring. He would probably be on the highest level of supervision.”

— Gary Cohen, Parole attorney

What’s next

If Hernandez is not released on parole this time, it could take up to five more years for another parole review.

The takeaway

This case highlights the devastating impact of impaired driving and the ongoing trauma felt by a community after a tragic accident involving a school bus. It also raises questions about parole policies for those convicted of such reckless behavior that results in loss of life.