A 42-year-old woman is facing impaired and dangerous driving charges after the bus she was driving crashed into a tree with several elementary school students on board on Monday afternoon.
Emergency crews were called to the Vanier Woods area in Red Deer at about 4:00 p.m. for reports of a single-vehicle crash involving a school bus on Valley Green.
Police say they were called by a witness who saw the bus collide with a tree and a sign and then continue on down the street.
There were 18 students, between the ages of 5 and 12, on the bus at the time of the crash and officials say no one was injured.
The driver of the bus was assessed at the scene by EMS and police initiated an impaired driving investigation.
Shelly Joy Kolodychuk, 42, of Red Deer is charged with:
- Impaired operation of motor vehicle
- Operate motor vehicle over 80mg
- Dangerous operation of motor vehicle
- Fail to remain at scene of collision
Officials with Red Deer Public Schools released a statement saying that they are 'shocked and angry' to learn about the allegations and that the driver is an employee of Prairie Bus Lines.
“We are deeply concerned and shocked by this incident. Adults who serve our students carry a significant responsibility for their safety and care,” said Stu Henry, Superintendent of Schools. “It is devastating when an adult betrays the trust we have with our students and parents.”
A bus was sent to take the remaining students home following the incident and school officials say they will continue to monitor the situation to ensure it is an isolated case.
Prairie Bus Lines also released a statement saying that it has a 'zero tolerance drug and alcohol policy in place', which includes a process for testing employees if they are suspected of being under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Officials say that in this case, there were 'no visible signs of impairment' before the driver departed in the afternoon.
Kolodychuk is expected to appear in court in Red Deer on the charges on July 12, 2017.
