School Bus Driver Charged With DUI After Hitting Parked Car: Cops

Police said seven students were on board the bus.

A school bus driver is accused of driving seven students while under the influence of drugs or alcohol and hitting a parked car in Norwich on Friday morning.

Police said Edwin Gonzalez, 30, of Willimantic, drove a First Student school bus into a parked car at 68 North Main Street in Norwich around 7:30 a.m. Friday, Feb. 6. According to police, Gonzalez drove "erratically" away from the scene.

At the time of the crash, seven students – including two minors – and a driver's aide were aboard the bus, according to police. No one was hurt.

Police investigating the crash determined that Gonzalez was driving under the influence and placed him under arrest. They're awaiting test results to determine whether which substance Gonzalez had allegedly taken.

He was charged with DUI, reckless driving, evading responsibility, two counts of risk of injury to a minor and second-degree reckless endangerment.

Gonzalez was held on $250,000 bond and appeared in court Monday, Feb. 9. His bond was lowered to $5,000 ahead of his next court appearance March 2.

A spokesperson for the bus company said Gonzalez has been suspended.

"At First Student, we know there is nothing more important than the safety of the children we transport. We understand the concern this matter has caused," said FirstGroup America Inc. corporate communications manager Stephanie A. Creech, in a statement.

Norwich Supt. Abby Dolliver said most of the students riding the bus were older and attending a work program. All parents have been notified and First Student is handling this as a personnel matter," according to Dolliver.

Information on an attorney for Gonzalez was not immediately available.

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