**School Bus Driver Arrested Following Incident Involving Child Dragged Along Road**
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A school bus driver in New York has been arrested after a 5-year-old child was reportedly dragged along the road when their backpack became trapped in the vehicle’s doors. The incident occurred on November 2 in Kirkland, where the child sustained minor injuries.
The Oneida County Sheriff’s Office received reports of the distressing event, prompting deputies to respond promptly to the scene on Martin Drive. Tasha Van Dayne, a 37-year-old driver for the Clinton Central School District, was at the helm of the bus during her afternoon route when the incident took place.
According to the sheriff’s office, Van Dayne had completed a stop at the child’s residence, where she let several youngsters off the bus. After closing the doors and preparing to proceed, it was discovered that a backpack had become caught, leading to the unfortunate dragging incident as the bus drove away.
Authorities stated that the bus continued for a significant distance before the driver was able to bring it to a halt. Thankfully, the child was not seriously injured in the episode, but the nature of the incident has raised concerns about safety protocols on school transport.
Following the event, Van Dayne turned herself in to law enforcement on the next day and was subsequently charged with reckless endangerment in the second degree, a class A misdemeanor. Sheriff Robert Maciol confirmed her arrest, noting that she was released on an appearance ticket, with a court date set for November 16 at the Kirkland Town Court.
In a statement released by the Clinton Central School District, officials confirmed that Van Dayne would no longer be transporting students, although they did not specifically name her in the announcement. The district expressed relief that the child did not suffer more severe injuries but acknowledged the traumatic experience felt both by the child involved and other young witnesses on the bus.
“We recognise that this was a frightening and traumatic experience for everyone involved,” the district commented. They indicated that a support team would be available to offer counselling services for students affected by the incident. The safety and well-being of children within their care remains a paramount responsibility for the school district, which has reached out to families of those on the bus route to keep them informed.
The incident has sparked discussions about the protocols and safety measures in place on school buses. The Clinton Central School District reiterated its commitment to maintaining the trust families place in them by ensuring a safe environment for all students.
As the investigation continues, authorities are examining the circumstances surrounding the dragging incident to ensure that appropriate measures are assessed and implemented to prevent any similar occurrences in the future. The school community is being urged to stay vigilant and proactive regarding safety on school transport.
As this situation develops, further updates from the Oneida County Sheriff’s Office and the Clinton Central School District are expected. The focus remains on the well-being of the young child and the broader community impacted by this alarming incident.
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