COVENTRY, R.I. (WJAR) — A yellow school bus crashed into a utility pole this morning en route to Greenbush Elementary School.
The incident occurred at approximately 8:30 a.m. at the intersection of West Warwick Avenue and Washington Street. According to authorities, the bus, operated by West Warwick Public Schools, was navigating icy conditions when it struck a snowbank, causing the pole to collapse onto the vehicle.
There were 13 students on board, along with the driver and a bus monitor. All were evacuated safely to Iannotti Funeral Home, located across the street. One student suffered minor injuries and was transported to the hospital for evaluation.
Witness Robert Iannotti described the moment: “I saw the bus make the turn and then veer into the shoulder. It was a tremendous bang.” He provided shelter to the students as they awaited emergency response.
First Student, the bus company, confirmed the driver has been placed on administrative leave while the incident is under investigation by the West Warwick Police Department.
Due to poor road conditions, some nearby districts delayed school openings; however, West Warwick Public Schools did not alter their schedule, and there has been no response to inquiries regarding this decision. The investigation into the cause of the accident is ongoing.