In a remarkable display of quick thinking and composure, a Cleveland Heights school bus driver safely evacuated 15 middle school students from a bus that erupted into flames during a morning route on Thursday.

The incident occurred near the intersection of Cambridge and Northampton roads as the bus was en route to Monticello Middle School.

The fire reportedly started behind one of the rear wheels. Upon noticing the flames, the driver immediately instructed all students to evacuate the bus.

The vehicle was fully engulfed within minutes, but all passengers had reached safety without injury.

Superintendent Liz Kirby of the Cleveland Heights-University Heights City School District commended the driver’s swift actions, noting that annual bus evacuation drills played a crucial role in preparing both the driver and students for such emergencies.

“I can’t express how relieved I am that no one was hurt,” Kirby stated, emphasizing her gratitude for the driver’s quick response and the students’ calm adherence to safety protocols.

Following the evacuation, another district vehicle transported the students to school, where counselors and support staff were available to assist them.

The Cleveland Heights Fire Department promptly extinguished the blaze.

Investigations into the cause of the fire are ongoing, though the bus had successfully passed its annual state inspection on February 14, 2025. As a precaution, the district has re-inspected all buses in its fleet.

This incident underscores the importance of regular safety drills and the critical role of vigilant school bus drivers in ensuring student safety.