Maine Bus Driver Faces Charges Following Ellsworth School Bus Crash

The driver of a school bus involved in a collision with a passenger vehicle in Ellsworth earlier this month has been charged following a police investigation.

According to the Ellsworth Police Department, Daniel Morse, 57, of Hancock, was issued summonses for driving to endanger, changing course of travel when unsafe, and parking or standing on the left with lighted headlamps. The summonses were issued on January 22.

WGME reported that the crash occurred at approximately 5:11 p.m. on January 15 along Route 1A, also known as Bangor Road. Investigators determined that Morse was driving an Ellsworth school bus northbound when he allegedly crossed into the southbound lane in an attempt to turn around near Cove Way.

At the same time, a sedan driven by Michael Sarran, 26, of Southwest Harbor, was traveling southbound. The news station said that Sarran’s vehicle struck the side of the school bus, resulting in significant damage and multiple injuries.

Sarran was transported to the hospital following the crash and, as of Tuesday morning, remains hospitalized with serious injuries, according to WGME. Authorities did not provide additional details about his condition.

Four students who were riding on the bus, ages 12, 14 and 16, were also injured in the collision, though WGME said their injuries were minor. Morse likewise suffered minor injuries and was treated following the incident.

The crash remains under investigation by the Ellsworth Police Department. Officials have not indicated whether additional charges could be filed or if further enforcement action may follow as the case proceeds through the court system.