TROUTMAN, N.C. — Iredell-Statesville Schools says there were still students on board a bus seen driving through flood waters on Thursday just before noon.
The video posted to Facebook shows Iredell-Statesville bus number 312 driving through a flooded area of road in the Ridge Creek subdivision off of Clontz Hill Road around 11:51 a.m. The school district says they are investigating the incident.
The district released a statement Thursday afternoon outlining the situation, which said in part:
"The bus entered into the neighborhood, which has only one way in and one way out, at 11:34am. After dropping off students in the neighborhood and prior to exiting the neighborhood, there was a significant change to the water level on the roadway. The driver called the principal, and asked for advice. The bus sat for several minutes as a decision was made about exiting the neighborhood. After discussion among three adults and watching multiple other vehicles drive through the area without incident, the driver was directed by her supervisor to exit the neighborhood. The bus drove through the water at 11:51am.
"The district does acknowledge that drivers are trained to not drive through water unless it is an emergency. After completing a review of the situation, the district will determine further action."
Officials say the bus was coming from Troutman Elementary School after the district decided early dismissal was necessary due to worsening weather conditions throughout the area.
Superintendent Brady Johnson says all students arrived home safely.
In Thursday's release, Johnson also said, "Inclement weather calls are extremely difficult and complex. We do acknowledge that is very disruptive, but these decisions are made with the facts that we have at the moment, and with the best interest of the students in mind. We appreciate everyone's patience and understanding as we navigate these difficult decisions."