UPDATE: Switzerland Co. Elementary Closed Today Following School Bus Fire

The students and driver were uninjured, but the fire took place close to the school.

Photo by Nate Smith.

Update published Thursday, January 8 at 2:13 PM:

Superintendent Rod Hite has announced that the scene at Switzerland County Elementary School has been cleared.

“As we reflect on the events that began shortly after 7:00 AM this morning, we are extremely grateful no students were injured and the damage was contained to a single bus. The school building was not damaged and we are fortunate so many dedicated people came together in such a quick manner to keep everyone safe,” Hite said in a letter to parents and guardians.

School will be back in session on Friday.

The Switzerland County School Corporation extended their thanks to the following agencies: East Enterprise Volunteer Fire Department, Bear Branch Fire Department, Posey Township Fire Department, Switzerland County EMA, Switzerland County Emergency Response and EMT’s, Switzerland County Sheriff’s Department, Switzerland County Highway Department, Switzerland County Commissioners and Indiana Department of Homeland Security.

Teachers, teaching assistants, office staff, cafeteria staff, custodial staff, and bus drivers are also being recognized for their support during Thursday morning’s bus fire.

A cause has not been released.

Original story published Thursday, January 8 at 8:30 AM:

(Vevay, Ind.) – All students are safe after a bus fire at Switzerland County Elementary School.

The fire occurred while a bus was parked at the school on Thursday morning.

According to Superintendent Rod Hite, all students and the bus driver safely evacuated the bus.

The fire was contained to the bus and did not spread to the school. However, due to the proximity of the bus to the school, Switzerland County Elementary will be closed today.

During the closure, emergency personnel will inspect and clean up.