DRUNK BUS DRIVER Who Crashed with 45 KIDS ON BOARD Pleads Guilty in Minnesota!
A boozed-up Minnesota bus driver veers off-road with 45 terrified students in tow—now she’s facing justice! 🌐 #News #RushCityMN #Minnesota #Crime
RUSH CITY, MN – A 60-year-old Minnesota woman has pleaded guilty to driving a school bus while intoxicated, leading to a crash that endangered 45 students last year. Thankfully, no injuries were reported among the children, who ranged from elementary to high school age.
The Incident: Bus Veers Off Course
The incident occurred on February 15 of the previous year, when Kara Ffrench, a resident of Harris, Minnesota, was transporting students from Rush City to school.
According to the criminal complaint, the bus she was driving veered off a driveway on Game Avenue in Rush City and ended up at the edge of a cornfield. While attempting to reverse, Ffrench collided with a basketball hoop.
When authorities arrived at the scene, they found the bus full of children. Despite the alarming situation, none of the students were physically harmed.
However, the situation took a turn when officers detected a strong odor of alcohol in the vicinity, even before approaching the bus.
Evidence of Intoxication
Upon exiting the bus, Ffrench was seen holding a plastic water bottle and a coffee mug. Officers noted that the mug emitted a distinct smell of alcohol.
Despite initially denying that she was drunk, Ffrench failed multiple sobriety tests administered by the police.
Further evidence of her intoxication was provided by a breathalyzer test conducted at the scene, which revealed a blood-alcohol content (BAC) of 0.199%—more than twice the legal limit for operating a commercial vehicle. Ffrench was promptly arrested and charged with driving under the influence.
Legal Proceedings and Guilty Plea
In Chisago County District Court, Ffrench pleaded guilty to a gross misdemeanor charge of driving a commercial vehicle with a BAC of at least 0.04%. Her guilty plea was entered on Wednesday, solidifying her role in the reckless endangerment of the students on board.
The legal process will continue with her sentencing scheduled for November 6, where the court will determine the consequences of her actions.
Community Concerns
The case has raised significant concerns within the Rush City community, particularly regarding the safety of school transportation.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers posed by impaired driving, especially when it involves the lives of children.
Authorities and school officials are likely to review policies and procedures to prevent similar incidents in the future, ensuring that student safety remains a top priority.
Mugshot courtesy: Chisago County Jail
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