Investigation into fall from moving school bus finds no fault with injured West Auckland student or driver

The boy was injured after falling out of an emergency exit on a school bus. Photo / Michael Cunningham

An investigation launched after a boy was injured falling from a school bus emergency exit has found that neither the student nor the driver was at fault.

All buses of the same make underwent immediate safety checks after the incident on Laingholm Drive, West Auckland, on February 5.

The bus was taking Glen Eden Intermediate students home at 3.30pm when the boy fell.

Principal Jonathon Hughes confirmed the findings in an email on Monday to the school community.

The statement said the boy remained in Starship Children’s Hospital, and his parents hoped his condition would continue to improve.

On Wednesday, a police spokesperson said the boy had since been discharged.

Hughes said Ritchies had carried out an “immediate safety inspection” on all buses equipped with the same emergency exit.

An Auckland Transport spokesperson said the bus involved in the incident had been removed from service for inspection.

Other buses of the same make were checked to ensure they were secure.

Ritchies declined to comment while the investigation into the incident was underway.

A police spokesperson said the bus was travelling at a low speed when the boy fell out of the exit.

“The child suffered moderate to serious injuries and was transported to hospital.

“The incident is currently being investigated by police, WorkSafe and the bus company involved.”

A WorkSafe spokesperson confirmed it had been alerted to the incident, but police were the lead agency.

“If police identify any potential health and safety failings as part of their inquiries, they can be referred to WorkSafe.”

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