Who keeps vandalizing Merced school buses? Damages are costly, officials say
Vandals targeting the Merced Union High School District bus yard have caused thousands in damages over the summer.
School officials are seeking the identities of those responsible.
The district’s yard behind Merced High has seen three separate incidents that now total $20,000 in repairs, according to district officials.
During the weekend, several buses were targeted, leaving them with smashed windows, mirrors, headlights and tail lights. Their doors were damaged, seats slashed and fire extinguishers were discharged, officials said.
The first-aid kits on the buses were also torn open and the contents were strewn about.
The vandalism has been reported to Merced Police Department, officials said, but costs continue to mount. Officials said they are concerned the buses out of circulation for repairs could become a problem when students return in a few weeks.
“Thankfully it’s summer and there’s not a lot going on right now,” district Director of Transportation Michelle Williams said. “However, the vandals are getting more and more destructive each time, and if this continues into the school year, many students will be impacted.”
Anyone with information regarding the vandalism is urged to call the Merced Police Department at 209-385-6905.
This story was originally published July 23, 2019 at 12:29 PM.
