Bus driver fatally struck by school bus at Maple Shade High School: police

Police are investigating after a fatal incident occurred at a high school in Burlington County. 

SKYFOX was live over the scene. 

What we know:

On Tuesday police responded to the bus depot of Maple Shade High School for a report of a motor vehicle crash.

Upon arrival, police say their preliminary investigations indicate that a district bus driver was outside his bus and struck by another school bus, sustaining fatal injuries.

The driver of the striking vehicle, a Maple Shade School District bus driver, remained at the scene and waited for responding officers. 

The victim, later identified by police as Jack Hohwald, 85, of Maple Shade, was a longtime employee within the district. 

The bus driver in the striking school bus was identified as Frank Vacanti 77, of Cinnaminson.

Officials say school will be cancelled Wednesday due to the incident. 

A police presence was seen near the parking lot of the high school in Maple Shade. 

The incident was called in to police around 3:45 p.m, reports say.

No charges have been filed related to the crash.

This is an ongoing investigation.

What they're saying:

Superindent Beth Norcia sent the following email to Maple Shade families and staff members Tuesday:

"It is with a heavy heart that I share some very sad news with you.  One of our beloved staff members has tragically passed away in an accident  in our bus garage. The Maple Shade police are still on scene investigating this devastating accident. We know this loss will be felt throughout the community.  As we all grieve as a school family, school and all events (clubs, activities and athletics) will be cancelled tomorrow, Wednesday, January 29, 2025, for students. This will allow our school community to process this loss and support one another. We understand that such news can be profoundly upsetting and we are committed to providing the support needed during this time. The Burlington County Crisis Response Team and counselors will be available for staff and students the rest of the week to support students and staff in their time of need. We know that children react differently to loss. We encourage you to talk with your child.  We will be sending out resources to discuss grief and loss tomorrow if you need assistance in speaking with your child about this terrible accident. We ask our students and staff to look after one another as we deal with the loss of our coworker and friend."

 Maple Shade Police Chief Christopher Fletcher said, "Our hearts go out to the victim’s family, Maple Shade School District and Community, which is devastated by what happened this afternoon, I can ensure a thorough and complete investigation into the matter will be completed."

What's next:

Check back for more updates. 

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