Child Struck by Vehicle While Exiting School Bus
Ontario Provincial Police have laid charges against a driver after a child was struck by a vehicle while exiting a school bus in the Ottawa Valley. The incident occurred on November 25, 2025, and has raised serious concerns about student safety during school bus operations.
The OPP confirmed that the collision took place in the afternoon hours when the child was disembarking from the school bus. Emergency services responded quickly to the scene to provide medical assistance to the young victim.
Police Investigation and Charges
Following a thorough investigation, Ontario Provincial Police officers determined that the driver failed to stop for the school bus while its red lights were activated. The driver now faces charges under the Highway Traffic Act for passing a stopped school bus.
Police have not released the specific age of the child involved in the incident or the extent of injuries sustained. However, authorities confirmed the child received medical attention following the collision.
School Bus Safety Concerns Addressed
This incident highlights the ongoing safety challenges facing students who rely on school bus transportation in rural communities like the Ottawa Valley. OPP officials emphasized the importance of drivers remaining vigilant and obeying all traffic laws when approaching school buses.
Under Ontario law, drivers traveling in both directions must stop when a school bus has its upper red lights flashing, unless they are on a road divided by a median. Failure to stop can result in significant fines and demerit points.
The November incident serves as a sobering reminder to all motorists to exercise extreme caution in school zones and around school buses, particularly during morning and afternoon hours when children are boarding and disembarking.
