The Mossos d’Esquadra arrested a 52-year-old coach driver last Friday afternoon after authorities observed multiple dangerous actions behind the wheel. The driver was found to be under the influence of drugs, using a mobile phone while driving, and filling out company documents at the same time as he controlled the vehicle.
On board the coach were 42 students and six teachers returning from a weekend trip in France. They were traveling along the AP-7 when the teachers noticed the driver committing several offenses. Worry for student safety prompted the teachers to alert the Mossos d’Esquadra. Under the pretense of needing to use the restroom, the teachers guided the coach to a layby area near Hospìtalet de l’Infant along the highway where the vehicle could be stopped safely.
Responding officers arrived promptly after receiving the call from the teachers and proceeded to identify the driver and the accompanying staff members who were present in the bus area.
Subsequently, authorities conducted a search of the suspect and discovered a small box containing what appeared to be white powder. Drug tests administered at the scene returned positive for cocaine. In addition to the drug findings, the Mossos d’Esquadra gathered evidence of dangerous driving, including the use of a mobile device while driving to watch videos and the ongoing completion of company paperwork during transit.
As a result of these findings, the Mossos d’Esquadra placed the driver under arrest for drug impairment and for reckless driving. After the arrest, the teachers coordinated with the bus company to arrange a replacement driver who would transport the group to their destination in Valencia.