New Jersey Man Arrested After Rock Thrown Through School Bus Window Injures Girl
TEANECK, N.J. — A New Jersey man was taken into custody after allegedly throwing a rock through the window of a school bus, seriously injuring a young girl who was part of a class returning from a field trip, authorities reported. Hernando Garciamorales, 40, of Palisades Park, was arrested on Saturday in connection with the January 7 incident on the northbound New Jersey Turnpike, according to the New Jersey State Police.
The rock shattered the bus window, striking the girl and fracturing her skull. She underwent surgery on Thursday and is currently recovering, officials said. “The girl will be OK,” Teaneck Mayor Mark J. Schwartz told The New York Post, emphasizing the community’s relief amid the traumatic event.
Garciamorales faces charges of aggravated assault related to a series of rock-throwing incidents along the Turnpike. His arrest came after a coordinated investigation by state police, who tracked the suspect to a campsite in Old Croaker, New Jersey.
The attack has prompted renewed calls for enhanced safety measures for school transportation. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration highlights the importance of protecting school bus passengers from external threats, underscoring the need for vigilance and swift law enforcement response.
Parents and community members have expressed shock and concern over the incident. Advocacy groups have pointed to the growing dangers faced by children during their daily commutes, urging state and local governments to implement stricter surveillance and preventive strategies.
Authorities continue to investigate whether Garciamorales was involved in other related rock-throwing episodes reported in the area. The New Jersey State Police have encouraged the public to report any suspicious activity to aid ongoing efforts.
This case also raises questions about mental health and public safety, as officials work to understand the motives behind such violent acts. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provides resources on violence prevention that may inform community outreach and intervention programs.
As the young girl recovers, local leaders have pledged to support her family and to prioritize the safety of all children who rely on school transportation. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities that can exist even in everyday settings, prompting a call for collective action to safeguard students across New Jersey and beyond.
Leave a Reply