Maryland Bus Driver Hailed as Hero After Rescuing 20 Children from Burning School Bus
COLLEGE PARK, MARYLAND — A Maryland school bus driver is being praised nationwide for her extraordinary act of bravery after she rescued 20 elementary school students from a burning bus, ensuring that every child made it out alive.
Fire Breaks Out During Afternoon Route
The terrifying incident occurred in College Park, when bus driver Renita Smith noticed smoke coming from her vehicle during an afternoon route. Without hesitation, she pulled the bus over, calmly evacuated all the children, and guided them to safety.
Once every student was off the bus, Smith ran back inside the burning vehicle to double-check that no one was left behind — an act that witnesses say likely prevented tragedy. Moments later, the bus was engulfed in flames.
“I just did what I was supposed to do,” Smith told local reporters after the incident. “I couldn’t leave any of my babies behind.”
Parents and Officials Praise Her Heroism
Parents and school officials have called Smith’s actions nothing short of heroic. “She saved 20 lives that day,” one parent said. “We can replace the bus — we can’t replace those children.”
The Prince George’s County Fire Department confirmed that the fire was caused by a mechanical issue and that no injuries were reported. Firefighters arrived within minutes to extinguish the blaze, but by then, Smith’s quick response had already ensured everyone’s safety.
A Community Grateful for a Guardian on Wheels
Local leaders and residents gathered days later to honor Smith for her courage and composure under pressure. The school district described her as “a shining example of selflessness and devotion.”
Students and their families also expressed deep gratitude, many referring to her as “Miss Renita, our guardian angel.”
“She treats every child on that bus like her own,” one teacher shared. “That’s why she didn’t think twice about running back inside.”
A Story of Bravery That Inspired the Nation
The story of Renita Smith’s heroism has since gone viral, spreading across social media under the hashtag #ImagesYouWontSeeOnTV, highlighting everyday heroes who act with courage and compassion.
For Smith, however, the praise has been humbling. “I don’t see myself as a hero,” she said. “I’m just thankful that all my kids made it home.”
Her quick thinking and unwavering sense of duty serve as a powerful reminder of how ordinary people can become heroes in extraordinary moments.
For more inspiring stories of everyday heroism and community courage, visit SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
