A school bus driver in Georgia has been arrested and charged with driving under the influence after being pulled over by police with a bus full of students.
The incident occurred in Paulding County, west of Atlanta, when deputies from the local sheriff's office initiated a traffic stop. Authorities reported that the driver, 34-year-old Brittany Zana, showed clear signs of impairment.
Signs of Impairment Lead to Arrest
According to the Paulding County Sheriff's Office, the bus was stopped for a traffic violation. Upon interacting with the driver, deputies detected a strong odour of alcohol and observed other indicators suggesting she was unfit to be behind the wheel.
Zana was subsequently arrested and charged with DUI (less safe), endangering a child by driving under the influence, and a traffic violation for an improper lane change.
Children Safely Returned
Officials confirmed that there were multiple students from Herschel Jones Middle School on the bus at the time of the incident. Thankfully, none of the children were harmed.
The Paulding County School District released a statement confirming that all students were safely transported to school by another bus following the arrest. The district also stated that the driver has been removed from her duties.
District's Swift Response
The school district emphasised its commitment to student safety, stating that such behaviour is "unacceptable and does not reflect the standards of our district." They confirmed they are cooperating fully with the ongoing law enforcement investigation.
This alarming event has raised serious concerns among parents and the local community about the vetting and monitoring of those entrusted with transporting children.
