Bus driver Johnthony Walker, 24, was arrested Monday and faces charges of vehicular homicide, reckless driving, and reckless endangerment related to a fatal accident in Chattanooga, Tennessee.
According to reports, 35 students were on the bus driven by Walker, and ranged from kindergarteners to fifth graders. The bus flipped on its side and crashed into a tree, wrapping around it. No other vehicles were involved in the crash. 5 of the students were killed in the accident. 6 others were treated at local hospitals but were not critically injured. 20 others were treated and then later released from the hospitals. One of those sent to the hospital later died, but it has not been reported whether this person was a student or adult. The names of the deceased have not yet been released.
Police investigators are considering the speed of the bus a strong factor in the accident. No other roadway conditions were found that could have caused the crash. Investigators are also investigating whether alcohol may have played a role. The National Transportation Safety Board is also sending a team to Chattanooga to investigate the wreck.
