Chattanooga Bus Driver Indicted After Incident Injuring Students
Chattanooga, TN — An investigation is underway following a troubling incident involving a Hamilton County Schools contracted bus driver. On October 3rd, Brandy Renee Smith, 40, was driving a bus filled with students when she allegedly slammed on the brakes, leading to injuries to several children on board.
The Incident
According to the details shared by family members of the affected children, Smith’s abrupt stop was a response to the noise level on the bus. Witnesses reported that her actions caused at least two children, both under the age of eight, to hit their heads against the seats. Following the frightening event, three children were taken to the hospital where they received treatment for minor concussions.
Legal Consequences
Following the investigation, Smith has been indicted by a grand jury on four counts of child abuse, nine counts of reckless endangerment, and one count of reckless driving. The indictment specifically highlights child abuse for knowingly injuring a child under the age of 18, along with additional counts for each of the other injured children.
Smith was arrested on a Friday and was booked into the Hamilton County Jail. She has since been released on bond, but remains suspended from her duties with Hamilton County Schools pending the outcome of the ongoing investigation led by the Soddy Daisy Police Department.
Community Reaction
This incident has sparked significant concern among parents of students at Daisy Elementary, the school the driver was contracted to serve. One family member, Brittany Taylor, expressed her outrage, stating, “The bus driver is the person who is supposed to get your kids home safe, not worry about someone hurting your kids.” Many parents are now voicing unease about the safety practices of school bus drivers.
Response from the School District
The administration at Hamilton County Schools has issued an apology to parents affected by this situation. Principal Jill Hall sent an email reassuring families that the district prioritizes student safety and expresses deep regret for any distress caused to students and their families.
Current Status
As of now, the investigation continues, and Local 3 News is actively seeking more information, including video footage from the bus and additional reports from law enforcement. The school district is cooperating with authorities as they delve deeper into the circumstances surrounding this hazardous event.
Smith’s future with Hamilton County Schools remains uncertain, as the district reviews the details surrounding her indictment and the evidence presented in the ongoing investigation.
