ST. CROIX, U.S. Virgin Islands — Four high school students are under investigation for felony charges following a violent attack on a school bus driver here, authorities reported, an incident that has spurred outcry and concern within the community. The students from St. Croix Central High School could also face expulsion for their roles in the altercation that occurred on Thursday afternoon.
The violence erupted on bus No. 27 as it was ferrying students to areas in Strawberry and East End, according to the Virgin Islands Department of Education (VIDE). The department has deemed the case a serious Level IV Infraction which includes assault and battery.
Officials detail a harrowing scene where the males repeatedly hit the driver in the back of the head and face. The assault escalated to the extent that a bus door’s glass shattered, further indicating the intensity of the episode. The injured driver was promptly taken to Juan F. Luis Hospital to receive essential medical treatment.
In light of the incident, the operation of bus No. 27 has been temporarily halted as a comprehensive investigation gets underway. The bus, a part of the fleet owned by Abramson Enterprises Inc., suffered significant damage. The education department is in talks with the company to review and enhance safety measures for future transportation.
The department has issued a stern condemnation of the violence, reaffirming its commitment to the safety of both its staff and students. A representative emphasized, “Such actions that jeopardize lives, whether of school staff or students, are entirely unacceptable and will be met with strict action.”
As prosecutors prepare charges, the implicated students face severe disciplinary repercussions consistent with policies of both the VIDE and the local Board of Education. Besides legal troubles, school expulsion is on the table.
Following the episode, the VIDE official escorted the bus driver to the police station to file a report. Continuous updates on the driver’s condition are being coordinated with the bus contracting firm.
Amid growing concerns over student behavior on public school transportation, the department urged parents to engage in serious dialogues with their children about respect and appropriate conduct in such communal spaces. They emphasized that using school bus services is a privilege that comes with the expectation of responsible and respectful behavior.
The incident is part of a troubling rise in inappropriate behavior on school buses, a trend that the department acknowledges needs immediate attention and action to ensure the ongoing safety and well-being of students and staff alike.