I-93 School Bus Fire: Four Students Hospitalized After Terrifying Incident
On Monday afternoon, a school bus carrying eighth-grade students caught fire on I-93 in Dorchester, causing panic and concern among both the passengers and onlookers. The incident occurred around 3 p.m. on the northbound side of the highway, prompting a quick response from Massachusetts State Police and other emergency personnel. Fortunately, all the children on board were safely evacuated.
According to a spokesperson for Boston Public Schools, the students had been returning to the Josiah Quincy Upper School after a field trip when the fire broke out. The cause of the fire is still under investigation, but it is believed to have originated in the engine compartment. The exact details, however, remain unclear at this time.
Swift action was taken to ensure the well-being of the students. Four of them were transported to the hospital for evaluation due to concerns such as smoke inhalation. Thankfully, no serious injuries were reported, providing some relief to worried parents and guardians.
The incident caused significant traffic disruptions, as all lanes on I-93 North were closed at Exit 14 for approximately an hour. Traffic was diverted at Exit 13 to Morrissey Boulevard, causing delays and frustration for motorists. However, by 4:18 p.m., two left lanes were reopened, and by 5 p.m., all lanes had been fully restored.
Eyewitnesses from nearby establishments, such as the Star Market, described the alarming scene that unfolded before their eyes. One witness, Cole Lesack, recalled the moment he noticed a thick plume of smoke and a strong smell of fire. “The flames were biggest over on that side, very black and very prominent,” Lesack said. He also observed a large group of children standing on a nearby bridge, accompanied by firefighters and police officers who ensured their safety.
While the incident was undoubtedly distressing for all involved, it is important to acknowledge the prompt response and coordination of the authorities. The students were quickly put on a backup bus and taken back to the school, ensuring their well-being and minimizing any further disruption to their day.
The burnt school bus was subsequently towed away, marking the end of a harrowing chapter in the students’ lives. Investigations into the cause of the fire are ongoing, with experts analyzing the wreckage and examining possible factors that may have contributed to the incident. The safety and security of school buses will undoubtedly be a top priority moving forward, as authorities work to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.
As this remains a developing news story, it is essential to stay updated with the latest details. News outlets like 7NEWS will continue to provide timely updates both on-air and online, ensuring the community remains informed about the incident and any subsequent developments.
In conclusion, while Monday’s school bus fire was undoubtedly a terrifying experience for all involved, it is reassuring that no serious injuries were reported. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining the safety and integrity of school transportation systems. By implementing rigorous maintenance protocols and regularly inspecting vehicles, authorities can help prevent such incidents from happening again.
