A Knox County Schools bus driver was hauled off in cuffs this morning under suspicion of DUI. The driver, identified as 63-year-old Knoxville resident Matthew Leveque, reportedly flunked a field sobriety test at Holston Middle School. A member of the school's security staff had alerted authorities about the potential danger before students were due to be dropped off, with a total of 19 kids aboard, though thankfully none were injured, as WVLT News reported.

The Knoxville Police Department responded to the scene around 9 a.m., and officers tested Leveque for sobriety. He was arrested after failing the test, and the investigation could lead to additional charges. Sources indicated the Knox County Schools doesn't directly employ its drivers, instead they contract with companies for hiring but this incident has led to Leveque's removal from the district's eligibility roster. All families with students on the bus have been notified of the incident, and Knox County Schools assured that alternative transportation arrangements are in place, emphasizing the district's zero-tolerance policy for any unsafe activity involving student transport, this according to a statement obtained by Knox News.

"KCS does not tolerate this type of behavior or any unsafe activity on buses that serve our students," the school system responded, as conveyed by WVLT News. "The safety of our students is and will remain our top priority."

The Knoxville Police Department, credited with the quick response after being tipped off by vigilant KCS security staff, are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the driver's condition at the time of arrest. School officials and police alike stress the gravity of the situation acknowledging the potential risk that had been presented to the lives of young students and applauding the swift action that prevented a possible tragedy from unfolding, as recounted by WBIR.