Kids on School Bus Noticed Driver's Alarming 'Mannerisms.' Now She's Accused of Driving Children While Drunk

Mar. 15, 2025

An Indiana school bus driver is accused of operating her bus while drunk, with more than 30 students on board.

The accusations against Kayla Pier, 38, date back to September 20, when the LaPorta County Sheriff’s Office alleges that students on a bus she was driving began making reports “regarding the driving behaviors and mannerisms of Pier.”

The incident was reported to police on October 21, after the school corporation received a toxicology report that Pier had submitted, the sheriff’s office said.

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Kayla Pier.La Porte County Sheriff’s Office

La Porte County Sheriff’s Office

Pier was charged with “operating while intoxicated and neglect of a dependent,” according to the sheriff’s office. It is not immediately clear if she pleaded guilty or if she has retained an attorney.

“The courageous students aboard the bus who reported the behaviors of the accused are publicly commended," police captain Derek Allen said in a statement. “Their attention to detail and prompt actions may have prevented a tragedy from occurring.”

source: people.com