FLORENCE, Miss. — A crash on Highway 49 last week has resulted in the death of Alex “Buddy” Cooper, a 79-year-old Rankin County school bus driver.
The accident involved a school bus and a truck. Authorities said the driver of the 18-wheeler claimed his brakes were not functioning as he approached the intersection. Florence Police Chief Brad Burns stated, “When an accident or a wreck occurs, officers go out to investigate it. They get all the information from witnesses.”
Cooper's family reported his death on social media days after the incident. Since then, numerous community members have shared memories, highlighting his significance in the community.
In addition to serving as a bus driver, Cooper was also known for portraying Santa Claus during the Christmas season. The Rankin County School District expressed their condolences, stating, “He was more than an employee to RCSD; he was a cherished member of our community.”
The investigation into the crash is ongoing as the community mourns Cooper's loss.