Mars Area driver dies following bus crash that injured 7 students
A Mars Area school bus driver has died following a March 6 bus crash that injured seven elementary students.
In a letter posted on the school district website, officials with the school and bus contractor A.J. Myers & Sons announced the death of the driver, William “Bob” Miller.
The crash happened at about 8:30 a.m. when the bus carrying at least 30 students struck a tree head-on in the 1600 block of Three Degree Road in Adams Township.
A UPMC spokesperson told TribLive news partner WTAE three students were sent to UPMC Children’s Hospital and four were sent to UPMC Passavant. All seven were discharged.
Miller was a driver for Mars Area students for 10 years, according to the district. The extent of his injuries in the crash and the exact cause of his death weren’t clear.
The letter praised Miller as “someone who brightened the days of many with a kind word, a warm smile and an unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and comfort of those he served.
“He was much more than just a bus driver; he was a friend, a familiar face, and a trusted presence on the road…. The grief we feel as a community is immeasurable, and our hearts go out to all who have been impacted by this loss.”
The letter encouraged those who need support to reach out to available counseling services.
The crash remains under investigation by township and state police.
Jeff Himler is a TribLive reporter covering Greater Latrobe, Ligonier Valley, Mt. Pleasant Area and Derry Area school districts and their communities. He also reports on transportation issues. A journalist for more than three decades, he enjoys delving into local history. He can be reached at jhimler@triblive.com.
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