20 Years Ago, a New York Teen Stopped a Runaway Bus After the Driver Suffered a Heart Attack

**Heroic Actions Save Students from a Bus Tragedy in New York**

On 6th March 2006, a routine journey to school turned into a crisis when a school bus driver suffered a heart attack while transporting students near Newark Valley High School in upstate New York. Thankfully, a quick-thinking teenager stepped up to avert what could have been a catastrophic accident, demonstrating remarkable bravery under pressure.

Julie Corson, then a 15-year-old student, was on the bus with approximately 20 other classmates when the alarming events unfolded. The bus driver, 69-year-old Ed Card, suddenly lost control of the vehicle after experiencing a heart attack. As the bus careened towards the roadside, striking mailboxes in its path, panic quickly set in among the students.

Describing the moment when she realised something was amiss, Corson recounted how the bus began veering dangerously close to a nearby mattress store. With her instincts kicking in, she made a bold decision. “It easily could have been a lot worse,” remarked fellow passenger Austin Brocious at the time. He praised Corson’s heroic response, which ultimately helped save the lives of all aboard.

Seated near the front, Corson crawled toward the incapacitated driver in a desperate attempt to regain control of the vehicle. “I got on my hands and knees and moved Mr. Card’s foot off the gas,” she recalled. With determination, she then pressed down on the brakes, successfully bringing the runaway bus to a halt just inches from the mattress store. Fortunately for the students, there were no injuries reported, although the situation took a tragic turn when it became evident that Card had lost consciousness.

While waiting for emergency services to arrive, fellow students Samantha Lindquist and Jackie Celiberti remained with Card, providing him comfort during this harrowing time. Celiberti reassured him with gentle words, saying, “It’s gonna be okay, Mr. Card,” as she held his hand. Despite their efforts and support, Card was declared dead from his heart attack shortly after the arrival of medical assistance.

The news of the driver’s passing sent shockwaves through the student body. Those who knew Card remembered him not only as their bus driver but also as a friendly and familiar face during their daily commutes. Corson shared a fond memory of him, recalling how he would greet them with a smile and wisecracks, even on his tougher days.

The incident left a profound impact on the Newark Valley community. It served as a harsh reminder of the unpredictability of life and how quickly circumstances can change. Students not only mourned the loss of their driver but also expressed gratitude to Corson for her decisive actions that day, recognising her as a hero in a crisis.

Reflecting on these events almost two decades later, the courage displayed by Julie Corson and her classmates remains an inspiring example of youth bravery. The incident, while tragic, highlights the importance of quick thinking and the ability to remain calm in emergencies. Corson’s bravery undoubtedly made a difference, ultimately sparing her classmates from potential harm and tragedy.

As communities continue to honour and remember those who have shaped their lives, this incident serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the profound impact one individual can have in moments of crisis. Through her actions, Julie Corson not only saved lives but also ensured that the memory of a beloved bus driver would not be forgotten.