School bus catches fire in Aurora with 14 children on board

DENVER (KDVR) — An Aurora Public Schools bus caught fire with 14 children aboard on Wednesday afternoon.

Aurora Fire Rescue said it happened around 4 p.m. near East 11th Avenue and North Picadilly Road. Firefighters responded to find the bus “heavily engulfed in flames.”

All 14 children aboard were safely evacuated and unharmed, according to Aurora Fire Rescue.

Fire officials credited the bus driver for taking action to protect the students.

“The bus driver’s quick thinking and bravery were also instrumental in the safe evacuation of the children,” reads a release from the fire department. “Upon noticing the fire emerging through the dashboard as he turned the bus, he immediately pulled over and assisted in evacuating the children. His prompt and courageous actions were crucial in ensuring everyone’s safety.”

The fire started in the engine compartment and has been deemed accidental.

Aurora Fire originally said the bus was with Arapahoe County but corrected that information to Aurora Public Schools.

Aurora Public Schools sent FOX31 the following statement Thursday morning:

“We are extremely grateful that no one was injured in an incident this afternoon involving one of our buses. While taking students home after school, the bus driver noticed a small fire in the engine compartment and immediately stopped the bus and evacuated everyone on board. We then called emergency responders who put the fire out. Another APS bus picked up the students and took them to their stops.

“We want to give our utmost thanks to our bus driver for his awareness and quick action. His response kept everyone safe. The safety of our students and staff is our top priority.”

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