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Published 10:06 13 Oct 2023 GMT
A 15-year veteran school bus driver in New York dismissed from her job after consuming an alcoholic beverage while on duty will not face charges, police say.
Amal Hanna, a 60-year-old bus driver, was caught drinking a White Claw alcoholic seltzer while driving students home from Smithtown High School West.
Speaking emotionally to News 12 Long Island, Hanna explained that the incident - which occurred on October 4 - came about when she mistakenly grabbed the alcoholic drink from the refrigerator she shares with her roommate. She added that it was a "mistake" and that she believed she was drinking regular fruit-flavored seltzer.
Currently undergoing chemotherapy treatments, which she says affects her sense of taste, Hanna says she couldn't discern the alcohol in the beverage. She also said that her center treatment has led to her living a teetotal lifestyle, and that she would never have purposely drank alcohol.
Nevertheless, as soon as the White Claw was spotted in her cup holder, she was promptly removed from her route. Thankfully, no students were harmed.
A devastated Hanna, who's been a reliable bus driver for over 15 years, questioned: "For people like me that don’t drink, how are they going to know this is alcohol?" The unfortunate mix-up has left her with concerns about her future, including fears of how she will cover her medical costs.
"I have been crying and crying, I don't even have any more tears. It was just a mistake, it was a mistake," an emotional Hanna told News 12.
Smithtown School District Superintendent Mark Secaur quickly addressed concerned families, and confirmed in a statement, that after receiving a report about the bus driver's actions, a different driver completed the route. Secaur reiterated the district’s "zero tolerance for this behavior."
WE Transport Inc., Hanna’s former employer, emphasized to News 12 and The New York Post that such behavior is "completely unacceptable", reiterating that Hanna was immediately taken off duty.
While WE Transport Inc. remained silent when approached by PEOPLE for further comments, a distressed Hanna told the outlet how much she's "suffering" due to this unfortunate situation. But in a silver lining, the Suffolk County Police Department informed PEOPLE that Hanna wouldn't face any charges following this mix-up, believing Hanna's excuse to be genuine.
However, the story doesn't end there. The community and internet have since rallied around the former driver, raising significant funds to support her during these challenging times.
A compassionate parent has launched a GoFundMe campaign, emphasizing that Hanna needs both emotional and financial backing. Describing her as a kind-hearted woman who was like a grandmother to the students, the organizer shed light on Hanna's challenging circumstances, including her ongoing chemotherapy.
The response? Overwhelming support. As of the latest update, the fundraiser had amassed more than $37,000 for Hanna.
And in the comments section, Hanna has been flooded with praise, with one person writing: "The tragedy and lack of empathy from an employer that is designed for public service is appalling. I hope this small donation can make your fight against cancer worth it."
"I hope this allows you the time you need to heal and get better. Sending lots of positive vibes your way," a second wrote.
And a third donator commented: "I hope this helps you be able to stay home and rest. I am sorry you were treated this way. Blessing to you Amal."
This incident serves as a testament to the strength of community support, turning a misstep into an opportunity for unity and compassion. And although Hanna's career has faced an unforeseen roadblock, the love and backing she's receiving from the community will hopefully be enough to get her back on track.
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