SUMTER COUNTY, Fla. (CBS12) — A school bus driver faces 29 felony charges of child neglect following a train collision that nearly endangered the lives of 29 children and one adult on April 2 in Bushnell.
According to the Sumter County Sheriff's Office, Yvonne Hampton is accused of the felonies, with additional charges for endangering an adult. The incident occurred at the intersection of E Central Avenue and N Market Street, prompting immediate law enforcement response.
Sheriff Pat Breeden announced the arrest during a video statement, emphasizing the potential severity of the situation. “The bus driver made poor decisions that could have resulted in the death of 29 children and one adult,” he stated.
Authorities commended the thorough investigation, thanking Deputies Hanson and Surreal for their diligence. They also acknowledged the cooperation of the school board, which provided crucial video footage for the case.
Sheriff Breeden underscored the importance of train safety, saying, “Trains don't sneak up on people. It was poor judgment that placed children at risk.”
Superintendent Logan Brown remarked on the gravity of the situation, calling it “unfortunate” and expressing gratitude for the collaborative efforts to ensure student safety.