March 19 2024- Michael Austin Ford, a former school bus driver in Utah, has been ordered to remain in custody without bail after being accused of setting a school bus on fire on two separate occasions, including one incident with children on board. Ford, 58, of West Valley City, Utah, faces charges of arson of a vehicle of an organization receiving federal funds. According to court documents, the incidents occurred on February 24, 2022, and April 7, 2023, while Ford was employed by the Lake City’s Granite School District. During the 2022 incident, Ford allegedly ignited a fire while driving a bus with 42 children on board, continuing to drive despite flames and smoke reaching the interior of the vehicle. Prosecutors stated that Ford only stopped the bus when children began coughing and complaining about the smoke. In April 2023, Ford set another bus on fire and continued driving despite smoke filling the bus. Court filings also revealed Ford’s attempts to tamper with the bus surveillance system before the second fire. Furthermore, during the investigation, Ford admitted to involvement in three previous bus fires dating back to 2001 or 2002. In October 2023, fires broke out at Ford’s home and personal car while authorities were investigating the arson incidents. Prosecutors argue that Ford poses a significant danger to the community, leading to his detention until trial.
A school bus is set on fire with kids inside. An ex-Utah bus driver is now being charged.
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