A routine Monday morning school run in Swansea veered into the bizarre when a 71-year-old bus driver allegedly urinated inside the vehicle while about a dozen young students were on board, according to police. The bus, headed to Mark G. Hoyle Elementary, was pulled over during the route, and investigators say the driver relieved himself while still seated in the driver’s seat. School officials quickly notified parents, contacted law enforcement and began working with the town and district on what happens next, as reported by NBC Boston.
According to NBC Boston, Swansea Police say 12 children between pre-kindergarten and second grade were on the bus at the time. The driver allegedly told the students to move to the back of the bus just before the incident. The district has since informed the bus company that the driver will not be allowed back on Swansea routes. School officials also reported the situation to police and to the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families. As of Monday afternoon, police said no charges had been filed and emphasized that the allegation is being treated seriously.
District And Company Response
The Swansea school district has pulled the driver from all district runs and told the contracted carrier that he is barred from returning to local routes while the case is under review. Amaral Bus Company, which officials identified as the driver’s employer, is based at 1090 State Road in Westport and provides school-route service across the region. Mark G. Hoyle Elementary is located at 70 Community Lane, and, according to Swansea Public Schools, parents with concerns can call the district’s administrative office at 508-675-1195.
Investigation Underway
Police currently believe none of the students on the bus actually saw what happened, and investigators are continuing to follow up on the allegation, according to NBC Boston. School officials reported the incident to the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families, while the police investigation is reviewing statements, records and any available evidence. Authorities have not announced any criminal charges and say they will take whatever steps are deemed appropriate as the case moves forward.
How School Bus Drivers Are Certified In Massachusetts
Massachusetts requires drivers who transport students to meet state standards for licensing, medical fitness and background checks before they can operate school vehicles. Local districts are responsible for making sure their transportation contractors follow those rules as part of their overall student transportation plans. The state’s pupil-transportation guidance outlines expectations for oversight, including driver certification, health requirements and criminal-history screening, all intended to ensure that anyone behind the wheel meets the legal and physical criteria to carry students.
Parents who want more information or support are encouraged to contact Swansea Public Schools at 508-675-1195. Swansea police say they will continue to investigate the allegation and coordinate with the district and state agencies as needed.
