Stockbridge police crack down on illegal school bus passing

STOCKBRIDGE — In response to a rising number of complaints, the Stockbridge Police Department is intensifying efforts to stop vehicles from dangerously passing school buses during student pick-up and drop-off times.

Reports of these illegal maneuvers, which put children at risk, have surged, prompting law enforcement to closely watch bus routes during peak hours on weekdays.

The department is collaborating with Berkshire Hills Regional School District and Massini Bus Company, using collected data to deter and reduce such incidents.

Authorities are calling on the community to report any observed violations by contacting the police at (413) 298-4179, emphasizing the importance of public involvement in safeguarding student safety.

The urgency of the situation was highlighted by recent near-misses.

On Jan. 3 at 7:36 a.m., a vehicle narrowly avoided hitting three children as it passed a loading school bus at South Street and Park Street.

Later that morning, at 7:54 a.m. on South Street and Maple Street, a truck illegally maneuvered past a bus during student loading.

The previous day, at 3:35 p.m., another vehicle passed a bus offloading students at Pinewoods on 3 West Stockbridge Road.

The Stockbridge Police Department has released images and videos of the offending vehicles and is asking anyone with information to contact Sergeant Nichols at (413) 298-4179.

The police are grateful for the public’s assistance in their mission to ensure the safety of the community’s students.