CDC issues letter on bus incident

The day after a video was captured of Child Development Centers bus No. 111 traveling in the center turn lane in the northbound lane of Route 8 in Reno – and not making a turn – the CDC sent a letter to parents addressing the issue.

The letter, dated Oct. 3 and signed by CDC Executive Director Rina Irwin, said in part, that there were no children aboard the bus at the time of the incident on Tuesday afternoon.

Irwin acknowledged in the letter, which also has circulated on social media, that the driver’s action “was inappropriate use of the turning lane.” However, she also said, “In view of her long-term safety record, we believe that the right thing to do at this time, rather than taking disciplinary action, is to monitor her performance going forward to ensure that she continues to safety (sic) transport our Head Start students.”

Also in the letter, Irwin said CDC Transportation Director Douglas Herrlich discussed the issue with the driver.

“Mr. Herrlich subsequently addressed this incident with the driver, reminded her about restrictions on the use of turning lanes, and obtained her recommitment to always drive safely whether or not children are on board,” Irwin said.

However, Lt. Ryan Ashbaugh, acting chief of Sugarcreek Borough police, said Thursday the incident is under investigation.

“It has come to our attention and we are currently investigating it,” Ashbaugh said, adding that a citation could be filed based on video evidence even if the incident wasn’t directly observed by police.

“As long as you have credible evidence, you can still file,” Ashbaugh said.

Editor’s note: (sic) indicates a misspelling in the original document.

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