Viewer Video Captures CMS Bus Engulfed In Flames In East Charlotte

CHARLOTTE, NC — Officials say one person was treated for minor injuries after a CMS school bus caught fire in east Charlotte.

According to Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, bus number 364 was servicing South Mecklenburg High School when it caught fire on Dunlavin Way Thursday afternoon. A viewer captured this cell phone video that shows the bus engulfed in flames.

Officials say 16 South Meck students and the bus driver were on board when the fire broke out. According to Medic, only one person received minor injuries. They were treated for smoke inhalation and taken to CMC.

CMS officials say the driver smelled smoke while driving the bus, immediately stopped, and evacuated all of the students on board. No other injuries were reported.

In a release sent out Thursday afternoon, officials say CMS Transportation will conduct a “thorough investigation of the incident, which will include a review of the inspection and maintenance records of bus #364.”

Superintendent Clayton Wilcox also released the following statement:

“We are all grateful that every student and the driver are safe. The district trains bus drivers and CMS staff to respond in emergency situations and the district is proud of the quick action of this driver and also thankful for the swift cooperation of students on board. The district holds the safety of all our kids and staff as top priority and will conduct a thorough review to ensure the continued safety of our CMS students and staff.”