Published Sunday, December 31, 2023

PIERCE COUNTY, WASHINGTON — On December 12, 2023, around 0755 hours PST, a school bus driver was transporting students from both Franklin Pierce High School and Washington High School and driving eastbound on 112th Street East near Waller Road East and approaching Vickery Avenue East.

(L) Photo Credit: PCSD

The school bus driver started experiencing a medical emergency as the bus was still in motion. He was able to use the Public Address system and said something like, “Somebody call for help!” and he began to lose consciousness.

Two students with the Washington High School called 911, while a third bravely ran to the front of the bus, grabbed the steering wheel, and pulled the emergency brake bringing the bus to a safe stop, saving all of their fellow students and the bus driver.

A fourth student used the bus radio system to call for help and a fifth student held the driver’s head and told him he was going to be okay.

The driver was transported to a nearby hospital for further treatment and is said to be doing great these days from the heroic actions of his students. They were calm and acted so bravely in the midst of what could have been so tragic for so many, were able to save so many lives on that day.

The Pierce County Sheriff’s Department brings this story to light and was so thankful to be able to honor these High School students at an assembly last week and recognize their heroic actions.

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