Dayton School Bus Driver Arrested Following Fatal Crash
A 14-year-old boy died after being struck by a Dayton ISD school bus in a hit-and-run incident.
Updated on Oct. 24, 2026 in Accidents
Brantley Conner, an 8th grade student at Woodrow Wilson Junior High School, died on October 22, 2026, after a collision involving a Dayton ISD school bus. The incident occurred as the student was walking as a pedestrian.
Why it matters
The tragedy has prompted significant local concern regarding student safety and school transportation oversight in Dayton. Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding why the driver failed to stop after the initial collision.
Ricky Eugene Cherry was arrested and charged with collision causing serious bodily injury following the hit-and-run. Police continue to process the case after the victim succumbed to his injuries.
The players
Brantley Conner
He was a 14-year-old 8th grade student at Woodrow Wilson Junior High School who died following the collision.
Ricky Eugene Cherry
He was employed as a school bus driver for Dayton ISD at the time of the fatal hit-and-run crash.
Dayton ISD
This is the local school district responsible for operating the bus involved in the pedestrian accident.
The details
The crash took place at the intersection of US-90 and Stilson Road when the bus struck the 14-year-old pedestrian. Following the collision at approximately 6:30 a.m., the driver allegedly fled the scene, necessitating the victim's emergency transport to a hospital.
Timeline
The crash occurred at the intersection of US-90 and Stilson Road on October 16, 2026, at 6:30 a.m.
Ricky Eugene Cherry was taken into police custody on October 16, 2026.
Dayton ISD issued an official statement regarding the incident on October 17, 2026.
Brantley Conner died from his injuries on October 22, 2026.
Legal Context
This incident follows a pattern set by the 2018 Texas Department of Public Safety school bus safety requirements regarding district driver accountability. The crash highlights the critical nature of these standards in preventing pedestrian fatalities involving district vehicles.
Local residents and families should remain alert near the intersection of US-90 and Stilson Road as the investigation continues. The school district and local police are expected to provide updates regarding safety protocols for student pedestrian routes.
The takeaway
The incident serves as a tragic reminder of the necessity for extreme caution in school zones and near district transport routes. Residents are encouraged to report any unsafe driving behavior observed in school zones to local authorities immediately.
Further reading
For more information on regional safety incidents, visit the Dayton Accidents section.
