Eight years ago, on Nov. 21, 2016, a devastating school bus crash claimed the lives of six young students from Woodmore Elementary School.
The victims–Cor’Dayja Jones, D’Myunn Brown, Keonte Wilson, Zyaira Mateen, Zyanna Harris, and Zoie Nash–were on their way home when the bus flipped on Talley Road, striking a tree. The crash also left several other children injured and deeply impacted families, friends and educators across the region.
Chattanooga Mayor Tim Kelly reflected on the heartbreaking event, saying, “Today, we pause to remember the tragedy that struck our community eight years ago–the Woodmore bus crash. We honor the six young lives taken too soon, cherishing the memories of their laughter, dreams, and the joy they brought to those who knew them. Let this solemn anniversary remind us of the importance of community, safety, and unwavering love for our children. Together, we continue to heal and hold one another close.”
The bus driver, Johnthony Walker, was transporting 37 students when the crash occurred. Investigators found that Walker was not on his designated route and was driving well over the 30-mph speed limit when the bus veered off the road. During the trial, prosecutors alleged he was also using his phone at the time. Walker claimed he swerved to avoid another vehicle but denied speeding or phone use.
Walker faced 34 charges, including six counts of vehicular homicide, and was ultimately convicted of six counts of criminally negligent homicide. He was sentenced to four years in prison. Walker later faced unrelated aggravated statutory rape charges, to which he pleaded guilty in 2020. He remains in prison, with his sentence scheduled to end in February 2025. His most recent request for parole was denied in January 2023.