Three Crestview Students Hailed as Heroes After Bus Driver Medical Emergency
RICHLAND COUNTY — As the sun slowly crested the eastern sky early Friday morning, Dec. 19, 2025, winter reminded everyone just how unforgiving it can be. Bitter cold whipped through the air, snow blew across roadways, and crashes were being reported throughout the county.
Amid those dangerous conditions, an unexpected and frightening situation unfolded on a Crestview Local Schools bus — one that could have ended very differently if not for the courage, awareness, and maturity of three young students.
Near the end of her route, Route 8 bus driver Michelle Cheadle experienced a sudden breathing-related medical emergency. With the bus load of students and winter weather raging outside, the situation was serious — and time mattered.
What happened next is a moment that will forever be etched into the memories of those students on board and one that has sent waves of pride through Crestview Local Schools and the entire Richland County community.
According to a press release from Crestview Middle School, video review from the bus revealed three students whose heroic actions stood out during the emergency.
Third-grader Catrina Thomas was the first to recognize that something was wrong. Realizing the driver was having difficulty breathing, she acted without hesitation. After Michelle safely brought the bus to a stop, Catrina ran to the back of the bus to alert older students and get help. Remarkably, she also provided crucial location information, identifying that the bus was on Faulk Road near the intersection of Van Tilburg Road — information that would prove vital for emergency responders.
Eighth-grade student Kali Meeks immediately stepped forward. She went to the front of the bus and attempted to use the radio. When that was unsuccessful, she calmly took charge, instructing fellow students to move to the back of the bus and remain calm. Kali then placed the 911 call, ensuring help was on the way without delay.
Seventh-grader Charles Thomas also sprang into action, successfully using the bus radio to contact the district’s Transportation Director. He stayed on the radio, relaying critical information until help arrived.
Within moments, Crestview staff responded. Superintendent Jim Grubbs arrived first on scene, followed by Transportation Director Joni Robson, Maintenance Supervisor Gene Esbenshade, Elementary Custodian Scott Amburgey, and backup bus driver Mike Welch.
Gene and Scott carefully assisted Michelle off the bus, while Mike took over driving duties and completed the remainder of the route. Despite the emergency and winter conditions, the bus arrived on campus only minutes behind schedule. Parents were quickly notified, and all students were confirmed safe.
Michelle was transported to the emergency room and is currently undergoing further medical testing. The district has indicated that updates will be provided as appropriate.
Superintendent Grubbs praised the students for their extraordinary response.
“The actions of these students were truly outstanding,” Grubbs said. “They remained calm, communicated clearly, and helped one another in a situation that could have been much worse. Their families should be incredibly proud.”
The actions of the Crestview students and staff also drew praise from local law enforcement.
Richland County Sheriff Steve Sheldon, after learning of the incident, commended everyone involved for their courage and character.
“The students and staff at Crestview Schools have a lot to be proud of,” Sheriff Sheldon said. “In a day where society sometimes has lost its way, you see acts such as this which show that heroism is alive and well. Fantastic.”
His words echoed the sentiment felt throughout the community — that in a moment of fear and uncertainty, compassion, leadership, and bravery rose to the surface, led by students barely into their teenage years.
In a moment filled with fear and uncertainty, three young students demonstrated courage beyond their years — reminding everyone that heroes don’t always wear uniforms or badges. Sometimes, they’re sitting on a school bus, doing the right thing when it matters most.
Crestview Local Schools expressed deep gratitude for the professionalism of its staff and the maturity and bravery shown by its students — a powerful reflection of the character being built every day within the district.
