JACKSON, Miss. — A school community is rallying around 79-year-old Alex “Buddy” Cooper, who remains in critical condition after a school bus crash on Highway 49 near Eagle Post Road on Monday.
Cooper was involved in a collision with an 18-wheeler and is known for volunteering as Santa Claus at Harbour Day School for children with special needs. Authorities confirmed the incident left him paralyzed from the neck down.
Parents and former coworkers shared memories of Cooper's positive impact. Parent Brittany Story highlighted how her 4-year-old son, Lane, cherished his experiences with Cooper, stating, “It's difficult knowing this could be the last year he would have had the chance to see him as Santa.”
Tammy Tadlock, a former school employee, brought Cooper into the school as Santa 15 years ago, recognizing his unique ability to connect with the children. “Buddy is the real deal,” she said, describing him as a veteran and former law enforcement officer dedicated to serving families.
As the community continues to show support, Tadlock expressed hope for Cooper's recovery, saying, “We trust God in the healing of Buddy.”
Emergency response details regarding the crash, including the number of injuries and ongoing investigations, have not been released.