CLEVELAND HEIGHTS, Ohio – A school bus carrying students in Cleveland Heights was abruptly engulfed in flames on Thursday morning, leading to an urgent evacuation.
According to Cleveland Heights-University Heights City School District Superintendent Liz Kirby, the fire originated near one of the rear wheels of Bus 21.
Authorities are still investigating the exact cause of the fire. Superintendent Kirby noted that the bus had successfully undergone its routine state inspection just two weeks prior. As a precautionary measure, district mechanics conducted additional inspections on all school buses later that day, she said.
At the time of the incident, 15 students were on board, en route to a local middle school. A nearby bus driver quickly stepped in to transport the students to their destination. Upon arrival, school staff—including administrators, counselors, and social workers—were present to provide any needed support, according to the statement.
PHOTO CLE HTS fire (COURTESY: MAUREEN OTTMAN)
Cleveland Heights school bus fire
Students escape school bus fire in Cleveland Heights
School bus fire in Cleveland Heights (Credit: Maureen Ottman)
School bus fire in Cleveland Heights (Credit: Maureen Ottman)
School bus fire in Cleveland Heights (Credit: Maureen Ottman)
School bus fire in Cleveland Heights (Credit: Maureen Ottman)
Cleveland Heights Police Chief Chris Britton confirmed that all students were able to exit the bus without injury.
Officials credited the bus driver’s swift response for ensuring everyone’s safety. Once at school, students were met with additional resources to help them process the experience.
“I cannot express how relieved I am that no one was harmed,” Superintendent Kirby stated. “I am incredibly grateful for the driver’s quick thinking. When I spoke with them today, they emphasized how the school’s routine bus evacuation drills played a major role in preparing both them and the students for emergencies.”
Kirby also commended the students for remaining calm and following instructions. The driver, who has requested to remain anonymous, was praised for their professionalism in handling the crisis.
Nearby resident Maureen Ottoman, who witnessed the fire firsthand, recalled the shocking moment.
“I heard a loud boom,” she told FOX 8 News. “When I looked outside, I saw flames shooting out from the side of the bus. I ran downstairs and immediately called 911.”
Authorities continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the fire as the district takes steps to ensure bus safety moving forward.