Elementary Students Rescued from Creek After School Bus Driver Falls Asleep at the Wheel

Dozens of elementary school students were rescued Monday morning after their school bus crashed and slid toward a creek in the Sacramento area — a terrifying scene that unfolded during the height of the morning commute.

Authorities say the bus was carrying between 30 and 40 children when it left the roadway around 7:25 a.m. on Raley Boulevard, near McClellan Airport. The vehicle came to rest partially off the road, dangling into a creek filled with several feet of water.

Emergency crews rushed to the scene as worried parents waited for updates.

According to the California Highway Patrol, the bus driver may have fallen asleep at the wheel. That detail has not yet been officially confirmed and remains under investigation.

Miraculously, no students were hurt.

“We’re grateful to report that all students were properly secured and were not injured,” CHP said in a statement posted to social media.

Photos from the scene showed the yellow school bus tilted at a dangerous angle, its rear end hovering over the creek while responders worked quickly to get the children out.

Officials confirmed the students were all elementary-aged and were safely escorted off the bus. Parents were notified shortly after.

The bus is operated by the Robla School District, which issued its own statement praising the rapid response.

“All students on the bus were safely accounted for, and no injuries have been reported at this time,” the district said. “As a precaution, the bus driver was transported to a local hospital and evaluated by medical professionals.”

The district added that the driver sustained only minor injuries and is expected to fully recover.

Investigators are now working to determine exactly what caused the crash. Both the school district’s Transportation Department and law enforcement are involved.

“The safety and well-being of our students and staff remain our highest priority,” the district said. “We appreciate the quick response of our transportation team and first responders.”

CHP also used the incident as a broader warning to drivers across California.

“This incident is a strong reminder of why school bus safety standards matter,” the agency said. “School buses are designed to protect children — but alert driving is still critical.”

Officials urged motorists to slow down in school zones, never pass a stopped bus with flashing red lights, and stay patient during morning and afternoon school hours.

Thanks to fast action and a bit of luck, what could have been a tragedy ended with every child returning home safely.