The Riverside Community School District has reached a settlement with the parents of a teenager who died in a fiery school bus accident in rural Pottawattamie County a little more than 2-years ago. The lawsuit had been filed against the District in April, 2018, by Glen and Natalie Klindt, the parents of 16-year old Megan Klindt. The teen, along with the school bus driver, 74-year old Donald Hendricks, died December 12th, 2017.

An investigation determined the bus was southbound on 480th Street, when Hendricks turned into a driveway to pick up Klindt–his first passenger. As the bus backed out of the driveway, it became stuck in a ditch. As Hendricks attempted to move the bus out of the ditch, a fire started in the vehicle’s engine compartment, and spread into the passenger compartment. Both Hendricks and Klindt were unable to escape the burning bus. Autopsies indicate both died of soot and smoke inhalation.

In a statement on the district’s website, Friday, Superintendent Tim Mitchell said “The District did not admit wrongdoing in reaching the settlement” with the Klindts. Mitchell added, “The parties recognize that no amount of money can represent this loss. However, the District’s sincere hope is that resolving this matter will assist the family and community in gaining closure for this devastating event.” He said also, “The District will continue to focus on providing excellent educational services to its student body and ensuring the safety of students and staff.”