A bus driver was arrested Thursday morning in the middle of her route in Westborough, Massachusetts, for allegedly driving drunk with students on board.
Westborough Superintendent Amber Bock said in a letter to the school community that she was saddened and frustrated to have to share that the Bus 8 driver was arrested Thursday morning at Park Village.
She confirmed there were students from Mill Pond School on board the bus when Westborough police officers took the driver into custody, and said everyone is safe.
"Providing for our students’ safety is the most important responsibility that we have," she wrote. "We are shocked and dismayed about this."
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Westborough police said later Thursday that Jane Welch, 51, of Marlborough, had been taken into custody on charges of OUI liquor 2nd offense, negligent operation of a motor vehicle, and child endangerment while operating under the influence.
NBC10 Boston reached out to NRT Bus for comment, and the company said they are deeply disturbed by the allegations.
"The safety of our students is critical," an NRT Bus spokesperson said in a statement.
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The spokesperson added that the company has already fired the driver, and they will continue to fully cooperate with local authorities during their investigation.
A not guilty plea was entered on Welch's behalf, with bail set at $10,000, which she posted. She was ordered not to drive, to wear an alochol monitor on her ankle and to undergo a mental health and substance abuse evaluation.
The attorney appointed to defend Welch didn't offer a comment on the case when reached by NBC10 Boston Thursday.
"There were radio transmissions asking her to stop," Assistant District Attorney Michael Luzzo said in court.
He said she had a previous OUI offense on her record from 24 years ago.
"That in particular makes this inexcusable to me, the fact that all of our children have been riding the bus with her," parent Jenny Albin said.
Two of her children take the Route 8 bus, and she said that, while Welch was known to be friendly and trustworthy, she had seen some red flags in recent weeks.
"We had over 12 notifications the last couple weeks that Bus 8 was delayed or that Bus 8 was going to be put on Bus 1 or that Bus 1 was going to take our children late," Albin said. "All I thought was, 'What happened? Why?' How was this not caught?"
According to police, concerns were first brought to their attention Thursday morning regarding the bus driver's behavior. They did not specify who made the reports but commended them for reporting their concerns promptly and demonstrating their dedication to the children's safety.
Westborough officers responded to the reports, making contact with Welch in the area of 125 E. Main Street, at which point police say they worked to gather information and take the appropriate action to ensure the safety of the children involved.
Welch was placed under arrest on scene, and police said they want to reassure the community that the swift and decisive action was taken to address the situation and prevent any further potential harm.
Police also extended their heartfelt gratitude to those who reported their concerns and collaborated with them throughout the process, saying, "Your vigilance and willingness to speak up contribute significantly to the safety of our community's children."
The Westborough Police Department said they, along with the school district and municipal leaders, prioritize the safety and well-being of the community's children above all else and they remain steadfast in their commitment to safeguarding the well-being of everyone, especially youth.
"We are committed to ensuring their safety, especially in environments where they should feel most secure, such as on their school buses," police added.
Anyone with further information or concerns regarding the safety of children is encouraged to come forward, police concluded.
