Dash-cam video catches HISD school bus driver acting recklessly

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- When she leaves her home, a Houston woman turns on her dash-cam. The purpose is to document adventures in Houston traffic.

She does not want to be identified, but her video post on Reddit and YouTube got the attention of other drivers, and ultimately, HISD.

The video was recorded last Wednesday on Highway 288, near the 'split' with Loop 610. It was afternoon rush hour, with Highway 288 slowly to its usual rush hour crawl.

First, an HISD bus shoves its way into a lane, in front of the dash cam driver. She called to report rude driving, but that paled in comparison to what followed.

The video shows the bus jerking onto the shoulder of the freeway, then speeding past the traffic jam. The driver, who called HISD as the incident was underway, said there appeared to be high school students on the bus.

A spokesperson for HISD said an investigation showed that the bus route includes MacGregor and Lockhart Elementary schools. Principals at those campuses are being notified of the incident. The spokesperson also stated that the bus driver is being recommended for termination.

This is the district's response:

HISD STATEMENT: "HISD has zero tolerance for drivers who put student lives at risk. Upon learning of the allegations, the transportation department immediately launched an investigation. The bus driver in question has since been removed from his position, and appropriate disciplinary action is being taken. The safety of our students and staff is always our top priority."

Parents to whom we showed the video were stunned.

"He should be fired," said Theresa Matik. "How do you know that other drivers aren't doing the same thing?"

Bus driver Joann Anahara, who has worked for several school districts outside HISD, watched the video in disbelief. "You can't do that," she said. "Because you're putting the students' lives in danger, and your own, and other drivers. You can't do that."