‘Traumatic event.’ Car slams into 10th-grader getting off school bus, NC officials say
A student was hit by a car while getting off a school bus, causing serious injuries, North Carolina officials told news outlets.
The 10th-grade student was taken to a hospital for treatment after the crash on Wednesday, March 15, in Halifax County, according to WNCN and a post from Haliwa-Saponi Tribal School Principal Melissa Richardson.
“Haliwa-Saponi Tribal School has experienced a traumatic event that has deeply affected us,” Richardson wrote on Facebook.
“At this time, I ask that you please join me in keeping this student and his family in your thoughts and prayers today and in the coming days while we remain hopeful for a full recovery.”
The 17-year-old was exiting a school bus at about 4:30 p.m. when a Tesla going in the opposite direction slammed into him, according to WRAL. The incident reportedly happened while the high schooler was crossing N.C. Highway 561 in Halifax County, roughly 80 miles northeast of Raleigh.
At the time of the crash, N.C. State Highway Patrol said the school bus had its stop arm down. The Tesla driver was “charged with passing a (stopped) school bus striking a person and reckless driving,” WRAL reported.
After the crash, Richardson said Haliwa-Saponi Tribal School has been in contact with law enforcement and announced that school would be dismissed early on March 16.
“Please know that our student support services team are available at the school to assist any students or staff who may need special attention or support,” Richardson wrote, adding that officials wouldn’t be providing further details about the crash or the student’s condition.
Haliwa-Saponi Tribal School on its website says it aims to provide learning opportunities while reflecting the “vibrant energy of the Haliwa-Saponi Tribe.”
“The name Haliwa is derived from the two counties of Halifax and Warren, which are the ancestral homelands of the Saponi People dating back to the early 18th century,” the tribe wrote on its website.
A state trooper wasn’t immediately available to respond to McClatchy News’ questions about the crash on March 16.
This story was originally published March 16, 2023 at 9:29 AM with the headline "‘Traumatic event.’ Car slams into 10th-grader getting off school bus, NC officials say."
