LAWRENCEVILLE — The driver of a minivan involved in a crash with a school bus in Clark County Tuesday morning that left one student dead and more than 20 others injured is now facing a felony charge.
According to Clark County Municipal Court records, Hermanio Joseph, of Springfield, is charged with fourth-degree vehicular homicide, a felony.
Joseph, 35, is currently in the Clark County Jail, Trooper Tyler Ross said.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol said 52 children from Northwestern Local Schools and a driver were on the bus shortly after 8:15 a.m. Tuesday when Ross says an oncoming minivan veered into its path on Route 41 in Lawrenceville. The bus veered onto the shoulder but was unable to avoid a collision and overturned.
One student ejected from the bus was pronounced dead at the scene. Twenty-three children were taken to hospitals by emergency medical personnel and others, including parents. One seriously injured student was taken to Children’s Hospital, while the injuries of the other 22 children were described non-life-threatening.
Joseph and a passenger in the minivan were also taken to a hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
This morning’s school bus accident in Clark Co. is truly heartbreaking. Fran and I offer our sincere condolences to the family of the young child who was killed. Our hearts also go out to those on the bus and their families, peers, and teachers. Our prayers are with you all.
— Governor Mike DeWine (@GovMikeDeWine) August 22, 2023
Northwestern Local Schools, where classes were to begin Tuesday, canceled Wednesday and Thursday classes but said grief counselors would be available at the elementary and junior/senior schools for anyone needing support. Staff members would get training to support students when they return Friday, officials said.
“Our hearts and prayers go out to the families that have been impacted by this tragedy,” the school district said on its Facebook page.
Court documents don’t list an attorney representing Joseph and a listed number for him couldn’t be found Wednesday.