Arson attacks have recently disrupted school transportation services in East Angus, leading to investigations by local authorities. On Tuesday morning, students faced chaos as three school buses were set ablaze, reported the Centre de services scolaire des Hauts-Cantons (CSSHC). Parents were urged to transport their children to school following the fires, which necessitated the cancellation of several bus routes, including minibus routes 620 and 636, along with bus 619.
The incident occurred around 1:45 am on Tuesday, and initial reports from the Sûreté du Québec suggest the fires may be of criminal origin. Louis-Philippe Ruel, spokesperson for the SQ, stated, “Emergency services uncovered some clues indicating it could be the handiwork of human hands. It is likely intentional arson.” This alarming development has left parents and students on high alert as authorities work swiftly to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The CSSHC announced the affected buses were integral to the transport of students from the Parchemin school and the Louis-Saint-Laurent secondary school, as well as Saint-Paul school. Facing the aftermath of the arsons, CSSHC administration promised to keep parents informed as new developments emerged throughout the day.
Fortunately, the transportation provider, Transdev, swiftly adapted to the crisis. General Director Martial Gaudreault confirmed the company secured three replacement buses from the Sherbrooke area, ensuring students could return home without delays following the disruptions. Gaudreault remarked, “We had excellent cooperation from Transdev, which found three replacement buses. Therefore, for this evening, parents and students will all travel as planned. This will continue through the next few days, at least until Christmas.”
While arson incidents targeting school buses are relatively rare within the Eastern Townships, recent events have heightened awareness. The CSSHC and local authorities are maintaining vigilance to prevent future occurrences as community safety becomes the priority.
The investigation remains active. With two of the three affected vehicles severely damaged, police anticipated around-the-clock analysis of the scene to gather as much evidence as possible. Events of this nature raise concerns, not only about student safety but also about the potential for broader criminal activity.
Some parents expressed shock about the attacks, which were not only dangerous but also seemingly senseless. “Why would someone target buses meant to transport our kids safely to school?” questioned one frustrated parent during the initial fallout of the incident. It highlighted how the community's peace was shattered by these deliberate acts of destruction.
Just weeks prior, another school bus fire occurred in Ascot Corner. That incident was determined to be caused by faulty heating equipment, and initially, the though of arson was quickly dismissed by authorities. The contrasting nature of this new string of fires has drawn significant media attention and concern.
The local community remains engaged, watching closely as the investigation develops. Discussions surrounding school safety, both on and off buses, have heightened among parents who are concerned for their children’s well-being. Schools, community groups, and law enforcement have begun collaborative discussions aimed at enhancing security measures to prevent future incidents.
The CSSHC vows to continue updating parents about the state of student transportation and any safety protocols being implemented following this crisis. The importance of ensuring safe passage for students has never felt more pressing, and administrators recognize the urgent need for community support and awareness as investigations continue.
With the main focus now shifted toward recovery and assurance, the CSSHC, local law enforcement, and the transportation services are committed to regaining the trust of the community—ensuring parents never have to worry about their children’s safety on school buses again.
Local authorities encourage anyone with information relating to these arson incidents to come forward and assist the investigation. The more eyes on the community, the stronger the network of vigilance becomes against crime of this nature. Prompt reporting can not only help solve these cases but also prevent future risks against civilian safety.
