Minn. Mom and Bus Driver Save 22 ‘Scared’ Kids from School Bus That Became Engulfed in Flames

A Minnesota mother and a bus driver are being hailed as heroes after their quick thinking and bravery saved nearly two dozen children from a school bus that burst into flames. The dramatic incident, captured by a Ring doorbell camera, unfolded outside Kari Thorp’s home in Bethel, Minnesota, as she went to pick up her 6-year-old daughter from the bus.

Upon spotting the first flame above the bus tire, Thorp immediately sprang into action, alerting bus driver Rick Gratton and working together to evacuate all 22 children from the bus to safety in front of her residence. The heart-stopping moment, now widely shared on KMSP-TV, Inside Edition, and CBS News, showcases the children rushing off the bus to the safety of the woman’s porch as smoke billowed.

Describing the harrowing experience, Thorp shared with Inside Edition her urgent desire to get the children off the bus swiftly, expressing uncertainty about the fire’s rapid escalation and potential hazards. The footage reveals the children moving hurriedly, some visibly shaken with backpacks and lunch boxes in tow, reflecting the chaos and fear of the situation.

Following the evacuation, the children were relocated further down the street away from the burning bus to ensure their safety, while emergency responders, including firefighters, arrived at the scene to extinguish the flames. The video footage captured the intensity of the blaze as it grew, with thick black smoke and flames engulfing the front of the vehicle, leading to the alarming sight of exploding front tires.

In an interview with CBS News, Thorp reflected on the timeline from her initial sighting of the small fire near the bus tire to the complete engulfment of the vehicle’s front, estimating approximately 15 minutes and emphasizing the critical role of her timely intervention. She acknowledged the potential catastrophe that could have unfolded had she not noticed the flames promptly, underscoring the gravity of the situation.

The heroic actions of Thorp and Gratton did not go unnoticed, as St. Francis Area Schools extended their gratitude to the duo with gift baskets as a token of appreciation for their unwavering commitment to ensuring the children’s safety. The community’s recognition and support left Thorp overwhelmed with emotions, highlighting the resilience and camaraderie that shone through during the crisis.

As Thorp bravely navigated the chaotic moments, she admitted to KMSP-TV that fear was present but overridden by adrenaline and the singular focus on ensuring the children’s prompt evacuation. Reflecting on the incident, she acknowledged the outpouring of support from the community and underscored the unity and strength that emerged in the face of adversity.

The commendable actions of Kari Thorp and Rick Gratton serve as a testament to the selfless courage and quick thinking exhibited in the face of danger, embodying the spirit of heroism and community resilience in times of crisis. The heartwarming outcome underscores the importance of vigilance and swift action in safeguarding lives, reaffirming the invaluable role of everyday heroes in protecting and preserving the well-being of others.