By SCOTT CARLSON
North Platte Post
IMPERIAL, Neb.-The Chase County Schools bus driver involved in a crash earlier this week has been cited by law enforcement.
The Chase County Sheriff's Office said the preliminary investigation into the Sept. 27 crash has been completed.
Authorities said the crash happened when the driver of the bus, Keith Cranwell, 39, of Champion, attempted to make a turn off of State Highway 15A onto a county road, failing to yield to a semi-truck, driven by Chance Lotspeich, 20, of Venango. The semi struck the rear of the bus causing it to roll onto its driver's side.
The bus was in the process of dropping off children after school and was carrying 12 students. Authorities said all students and drivers were transported to Chase County Hospital, with three being flown to trauma centers by helicopter. All children are recovering from their injuries, according to the Sheriff's office. Eight students have been treated and released.
Following the preliminary investigation, Cranwell was cited for failure to yield the right of way and careless driving. He is due to appear in Chase County court on Oct. 26.
The Sheriff's Office thanked the hospital, Nebraska State Patrol, and good samaritans for their assistance.
The investigation is ongoing and more information may be released later.
