FAULKNER COUNTY, Ark. — On Monday morning, the Faulkner County Sheriff's Office received a call about a child who was hit by a vehicle while approaching the school bus.
"Christopher Severns was the driver. He was arrested and charged with reckless driving and unsafe driving, as well as passing when a stopped school bus," said Sheriff Tim Ryals.
Sheriff Ryals said that while he believes the young boy who was hit is doing okay, the situation could've been avoided.
"I understand that my chief deputy and some of my deputies went out and greeted him and spoke with and checked on him. He seemed to be in good spirits and he's ultimately okay, but it could have been bad, and it could have been a lot worse," he described.
He also explained how situations like this are why their department has been cracking down on those who choose to violate the law.
"We will make sure that you go before a judge and that's our goal. Whether it's a two-lane, four-lane, or a six-lane highway if a school bus is stopped, you have to stop for that school bus," Sheriff Ryals said.
However, he also said that as much as they wish they could be one in place every single time to catch violators, it's impossible but that's also where the community comes into play.
"We are in law enforcement here, but we know that sometimes it takes a village. So if you see violators or if they fly through these school zones [let us know]. Feedback to our office is vital," he added.
Making sure you're not distracted, slowing down in school zones, and obeying the stop signs on school buses can keep a child alive.
"We will do our due diligence to be sure that if you violate these laws, we will be there and we will be looking for you. You may not get caught the first time, but you will get caught," Sheriff Ryals said.