Video Shows Bus Driver Fell Asleep Before Crash: Reports

WATSONVILLE, CA — The man driving a school bus with 34 students on board fell asleep before crashing into power pole in Watsonville in April, according to multiple media reports. A California Highway Patrol spokesperson said Wednesday that video from the school bus proves that Francisco Valenzuela lied to officers when he said he swerved to avoid a collision with another vehicle on the road. Officials say the video shows Valenzuela fell asleep while driving.

The dramatic crash, which brought down power lines after the bus sheared off a pole, was reported just before 8 a.m. near Casserly and Wheelock roads on April 29. Officials said Valenzuela evacuated the children from the bus despite the downed power lines nearby and officers were forced to close the road for hours during the investigation. Valenzuela is facing criminal charges, according to ABC 30. Read the full story on ABC 30 here.

See Also:

• School Bus Crash Under Investigation In Santa Cruz County

Photo courtesy Santa Cruz CHP