CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. (WZTV) — The family of a student killed in a Tennessee school bus crash has filed a lawsuit against the Clarksville Montgomery County School System (CMCSS) and the bus driver.
On March 27, a crash occurred on Highway 70 in Carroll County, resulting in the deaths of two students and injuries to several others. Video footage shows the school bus crossing over the double yellow line into oncoming traffic before colliding with a TDOT truck, which subsequently caught fire. The bus then drove off the road and struck a tree.
The lawsuit, filed by John and Jessica Davis, parents of middle schooler Zoe Davis, contends that the bus driver, Sabrina R. Ducksworth, was fatigued and distracted at the time of the incident. Witnesses reported that Ducksworth may have suffered a medical emergency, though this has not been confirmed by authorities. The Tennessee Highway Patrol and the National Transportation Safety Board are currently investigating the crash.
Additionally, the lawsuit claims CMCSS was negligent in hiring and training Ducksworth and failed to conduct proper background checks. A CMCSS spokesperson stated that Ducksworth had no prior disciplinary actions on record and emphasized the organization's cooperation with ongoing investigations.
The Davis family seeks damages to be determined by a jury. In Tennessee, non-economic damages are capped at $5 million, excluding legal costs. CMCSS has declined to comment on the lawsuit due to pending litigation.
This story is developing. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.