Students escaped injury in eastern Putnam County yesterday in a vehicle accident. Troopers say a 2018 school bus operated by 57-year-old William Henry Locklear IV of Monterey was traveling east on Industrial Drive near the intersection of Pruitt Street. Locklear activated his stop sign, stopped near the intersection and attempted to offload children. A 2005 Ford Explorer, driven by 55-year-old Barbara Ryan, was traveling behind and rear ended the bus. No injuries resulted from the crash. Ryan was charged with DUI, failure to exercise due care, seatbelt offense, violation of the financial responsibility law, simple possession of a Schedule 6 drug, simple possession of a Schedule 2 drug, possession of drug paraphernalia and introduction of contraband into a penal facility.

Law enforcement reminds motorists to use caution, especially when school buses are on the road, and never drive under the influence. If you suspect another driver of DUI, always call law enforcement.