Bus driver Kayla Pier arrested for drunk driving with children on board
- Kayla Pier was arrested for driving a school bus under the influence of alcohol while transporting 32 children.
- Concerns were raised by students regarding her driving behavior, prompting an investigation.
- The incident has sparked discussions about safety measures and accountability for school transportation.
In Indiana, a serious incident involving a school bus driver occurred on September 20, 2023. Kayla Pier, aged 38, was transporting 32 students on her bus from La Porte Middle School to Riley Elementary School when concerns arose regarding her driving behavior. Students onboard reported unusual mannerisms and unsafe driving to the school officials. This prompted the transportation director to investigate, leading to Pier's removal from the bus. After extensive investigations, including toxicology tests and footage review, police gathered enough evidence to file charges against Pier. In December, an arrest warrant was issued, leading her to surrender on December 20, 2023. She was charged with operating while intoxicated, as well as neglect of a dependent due to her responsibility for the safety of the children aboard. This incident raised alarms about the enforcement of safety in school transportation and highlighted the importance of accountability among those entrusted with children's safety. The school district recognized the quick actions of the students who reported Pier's impaired condition, commending their courage, which likely prevented a potential tragedy. Following her resignation from the school district, Pier's case has drawn attention to the ongoing challenges regarding driver safety and monitoring, particularly in school zones. The community continues to advocate for stringent measures to ensure that such incidents do not recur in the future.