Northern Kentucky School Bus Hit by Intoxicated Driver; 12 Students and Monitor on Board, Police Say
ALEXANDRIA, KENTUCKY — An intoxicated driver was arrested Friday afternoon after crashing into a Campbell County Schools bus carrying 12 students and a bus monitor in northern Kentucky. The dangerous collision happened on U.S. 27 South near Spillman Drive at around 2:28 p.m., authorities said.
12 Students and Bus Monitor on Board When Car Crashed Into Bus
The Alexandria Police Department reported that the school bus was traveling its normal route when it was struck by another vehicle. Twelve children and one bus monitor were inside the bus at the time of the crash.
Police confirmed that one student was transported to the hospital with minor injuries, and no serious injuries were reported among the remaining passengers.
Officers at the scene said the bus remained upright, and first responders quickly cleared and evaluated all children.
Driver Arrested on 14 Counts of Wanton Endangerment and OWI
The driver who hit the bus was identified as 42-year-old Donald M. Weinel of Newport. Police said he appeared to be under the influence at the time of the crash.
Weinel faces a long list of charges, including:
- 14 counts of First-Degree Wanton Endangerment
- Operating a Motor Vehicle Under the Influence (Aggravating Circumstance)
- First-Degree Criminal Mischief
He was taken into custody and booked into the Campbell County Detention Center.
Police Thank First Responders, Emphasize Dangers of Impaired Driving
In a statement released after the crash, the Alexandria Police Department emphasized the seriousness of driving under the influence and credited emergency personnel for their teamwork.
The department said:
“Operating under the influence is a serious offense. We will continue to be vigilant in detecting and enforcing impaired driving.”
They added:
“We are grateful no one was seriously injured during this incident. Thank you to Campbell County Schools, Campbell Fire Rescue, and Campbell County Police for their assistance.”
Authorities said investigations into the crash remain ongoing.
As northern Kentucky officials continue to push for safer roads and stronger impaired-driving enforcement, parents and residents are urged to stay alert and report reckless drivers immediately. For more updates on regional safety news, school incidents, and breaking crime stories, visit ChicagoMusicGuide.com.