A Newton County school bus transporting Clements Middle School students experienced a safety incident Friday morning when an individual boarded the vehicle at a bus stop without permission, school officials said.
The incident started when an unknown individual entered the bus despite the driver’s attempts to block access. The person took a seat at the front of the bus and requested emergency assistance, according to a statement from the Newton County Schools district.
Following standard safety protocols, students were immediately evacuated, and law enforcement was contacted. Officers reportedly arrived within minutes and took the individual into custody for evaluation.
No injuries were reported, and all students were taken to school shortly after the start of the day.
"While we are grateful that all students are safe in light of this incident, we are equally grateful for the quick actions of our bus driver. As of this hour, all students are now at school, and our emotional support team will be available to provide assistance as needed," the district said in part.
The district assured parents that additional updates would be provided as new information becomes available.