Accident – Death – Obituary News :
The School Bus Rollover Crash in Calhoun County, West Virginia
The serene county of Calhoun in West Virginia was rocked by a tragic incident recently, involving a school bus driver and multiple injured students. The incident took place on State Route 16, a picturesque road that winds through the heart of Calhoun County, surrounded by lush greenery and rolling hills.
The Alleged DUI Incident
Jeffrey Allen Brannon, a 54-year-old school bus driver, found himself in hot water after being accused of driving under the influence. According to reports from Calhoun County Magistrate Court, Brannon was arraigned on charges of DUI causing injury and child neglect causing injury after a rollover crash that left several students with serious injuries.
The Tragic Crash
On a fateful evening around 6 p.m., Brannon reportedly lost control of the school bus, veering off the road and colliding with a culvert. The impact caused the bus to tip over, resulting in a harrowing scene that required emergency medical services to evacuate the injured children from the back of the bus.
The Injured Students
Three young students, aged between 12 and 14, suffered significant injuries in the crash, including a concussion and a fractured vertebra. While two of the victims had to be airlifted from the scene, thankfully, their injuries were deemed non-life-threatening.
The Legal Ramifications
Authorities reported that Brannon had a blood-alcohol level of .127%, well above the legal limit. A preliminary breath test at the scene showed a shocking reading of .161%, nearly double the legal threshold. Additionally, investigators noted that Brannon exhibited aggressive behavior and defiance upon their arrival at the crash site.
Legal Proceedings and School Closure
Brannon’s bond was set at $250,000, and his preliminary hearing is scheduled for March 14. Meanwhile, in light of the incident, all Calhoun County schools will remain closed on Tuesday. The community is reeling from the aftermath of this tragic event, with concerns for the safety and well-being of its students at the forefront.
As the investigation unfolds and the legal process takes its course, the residents of Calhoun County are left grappling with the shock and repercussions of a preventable tragedy that has left a lasting impact on the tight-knit community.
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