7-year-old boy fatally struck by school bus in Terrebonne Parish

MONTEGUT, La. (WVUE) — A 7-year-old boy was fatally struck by a school bus in Terrebonne Parish on Thursday, Aug. 22. Louisiana State Police identified the victim as Jeremiah Falgout. School leaders say he attended Montegut Elementary School.

Investigators say the bus driver stopped in the 500 block of Hwy 665, activated the flashing warning lights, and let children off the bus, including the 7-year-old. As the bus was driving away, police say the driver somehow hit Falgout.

The boy was taken to a hospital where he later died.

Parish Superintendent Aubrey Orgeron Jr called the incident “devastating.” He says the bus driver was a substitute who drove the route earlier in the week.

“He was a good friend, kids on the bus with him were good friends of his. He was loved by his mom and his family. They loved him,” he said.

Grief counselors will be on campus to provide support for students and faculty.

“He liked to smile a lot and play with his friends and stuff. He liked Spider-Man and you know,” said third grader Riley.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the student, their family, and the bus driver involved,” a district spokesperson said.

Troopers say the driver was given a breathalyzer test and determined there was no impairment.

State police are continuing to investigate the cause of the crash. The school district has turned over video.