A tense situation unfolded Monday morning in Mashpee when a school bus carrying 26 children crashed into a tree after the driver experienced a sudden medical emergency.
According to the Mashpee Police Department, the incident occurred around 8:40 a.m. near Old Barnstable Road and Leather Leaf Lane. The bus was transporting students, aged 6 to 12, to Quashnet Intermediate School and Kenneth C. Coombs School.
Authorities reported that the driver suffered a “life-threatening” medical episode behind the wheel. Despite the emergency, she managed to slow the vehicle before it veered off and struck a tree. Images from the scene showed a cracked windshield, but no major structural damage.
Emergency responders quickly arrived, transporting the driver to Cape Cod Hospital for urgent care. One student was also taken to Falmouth Hospital as a precaution. Officials confirmed that no children sustained serious injuries.
Parents later shared that the driver appeared to recognize something was wrong and attempted to pull over. Students reportedly tried to get her attention when she became unresponsive.
Superintendent Michele Conners expressed relief that the children were safe and confirmed that counseling support has been made available at schools.
The incident remains under investigation, while the community continues to rally around the driver, described by parents as a long-time and deeply valued member of the town.
