Rome school bus driver honored for his quick decision-making in crash that injured 15

ROME, Ga. — A Rome City Schools bus driver is being honored for his exemplary service and quick-thinking after a bus crash last week.

Last Thursday night on Highway 101, 15 people, including Rome High School football players and their coaches, were heading back from a scrimmage at Rockmart High School when the crash happened around 10:45 p.m. The bus overturned after a collision with another car, officials previously said.

According to Georgia State Patrol, the driver of the car involved was arrested and was suspected of being under the influence of alcohol. The 21-year-old driver, Jeyonna Underwood, faces charges including DUI, DUI-endangerment of a child under age 14 and failure to maintain lane.

RELATED: Driver arrested on suspicion of DUI after crash involving school bus that injured 15 people, including Rome students

Now, Rome City Schools is honoring bus driver Nakita Strickland for his quick decision-making during the bus accident. 

"Mr. Strickland's quick-thinking and safety-first mentality ensured the safety of our students and staff during last Thursday evening's bus accident," the school district wrote on social media. "We are all grateful that Mr. Strickland is a part of our team."

Check out the photos as the school district honored Mr Strickland below: