Students described the terrifying moments before the bus went off the road.
“Something hit it, and then the bus just went sideways,” recalled 13-year-old Charlotte Weldon, her voice still trembling. “Everyone started helping each other get out through the emergency exits.”
Twin sisters Maddie and Lily Knight, who were seated near the back, said they saw debris flying before the vehicle rolled into a ditch. “Everyone fell on top of me,” Maddie said. Their mother, Linnea Knight, rushed to the emergency centre after receiving a frantic call. “I just dropped everything and drove,” she said. “You never think it’ll be your kids.”
Investigation Underway
Police say it’s too early to determine what caused the crash. Witnesses suggested the driver may have suffered a medical emergency, but investigators are also examining the bus’s mechanical condition and roadway factors.
“The investigation is ongoing,” Const. Duguay said. “We’re looking at every possible cause.”
At the scene, tire marks and broken pieces of a roadside construction sign were visible where the bus left the highway. Officers from the OPP’s collision reconstruction team spent hours documenting the impact zone.
A Community Rallies Together
At the East Lions Community Centre, parents were reunited with their children in scenes filled with relief, tears, and gratitude. Many students helped one another escape through emergency exits, a response police say likely prevented more serious injuries.
The Waterloo Region District School Board released a statement later that day, confirming that all families had been contacted and that counseling support would be provided.
“Our priority is ensuring the safety and well-being of every student and staff member,” said Scott Miller, the board’s director of education. “We’re deeply thankful to the first responders and community members who acted quickly and compassionately.”
Parents have since called for renewed attention to school transportation safety and driver health screening, emphasizing the importance of prevention and awareness.
“This was supposed to be a fun learning trip,” said Knight. “Now it’s something none of them will ever forget.”
A Day That Changed Everything
By the end of the day, investigators remained on-site, piecing together what happened. The tragedy has shaken both the school community and the wider region — a sobering reminder of how fragile life can be on the open road.
As students and parents returned home, many expressed deep sadness for the driver who had safely transported countless children over the years. “He was one of the good ones,” one student quietly said.
Our thoughts are with the families and students affected by this tragic event.
What safety changes do you think should be prioritized for school travel? Share your thoughts below — your voice matters. ❤️