OCT. 16, 2025 - The intersection of Founders Way and Bradley Branch Road. (Photo: WLOS Staff)
ARDEN, N.C. (WLOS) — North Carolina State Highway Patrol is investigating after two Buncombe County Schools students were hit by a vehicle while waiting for the bus Thursday morning, officials said.
The Buncombe County Sheriff's Office said the incident occurred around 7:15 a.m. and involved two students, one from an intermediate school and one from a middle school. The incident happened at the intersection of Founders Way and Bradley Branch Road.
One neighbor shared her concern after learning about the incident.
"I've watched these kids now for four years grow up, practically. When I first moved here, some of them were just little. Now they're teenagers and they're all on their phones," said Audrey Waltimyer, who lives just up the road from the bus stop.
Bobby Ferrelli, who often visits his mom on Founders Way, where the accident happened, said he was surprised the incident happened there.
"I feel like over here, it's usually fairly safe," he said. "I haven't really seen anything too wild. I mean, people flying up and down the streets a lot of the time. But to hear kids getting hit[...] it definitely makes me nervous some."
State Highway Patrol Sgt. Alan Smith said the driver of the vehicle was pulling into Founders Way when they struck the two students. He says the driver of the vehicle initially left the scene before later returning.
The students who were struck were taken to the hospital with minor injuries, Highway Patrol officials said. A third student was at the bus stop, but he said he was not hit by the vehicle, officials said.
"It is essential to be vigilant about the presence of children near school bus stops, stopped school buses, and within school speed limit zones," BCSO said in a statement, in part.
"I just hope everybody's safe out there, man," Ferrelli said. "Pay attention, stay out of the way, get to where you need to go as safe as you can."
"If these were my children, I would be mortified," said Audrey Waltimyer.
State Highway Patrol officials say the driver will likely face misdemeanor hit-and-run charges.
The incident remains under investigation.