Posted by aak1972 (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 11:42 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Any details on what caused the accident?

Posted by Prayingforachange (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 11:44 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I am praying for all the families affected by this horrific accident, I pray that everyone injured will be healed. I pray that all will be alright in the mighty name of Jesus. Please Lord look over the babies, and heal their wounds. Please Sir !!!!!!!!!!

Posted by supermom (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 11:48 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I would hate to be a family member of the driver and see this picture. I personally think it's insensitive, but I guess that's what sells........

Posted by justthefactsman (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 11:48 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Prayers are with Mr. Cockerham and family as well as the students injured. I saw the helicopter fly over and said a prayer as it flew over. Mr. Cockerham was my school bus driver when I was in school. Hope everyone comes out ok.

Posted by supermom (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 11:50 a.m. (Suggest removal)

God be with all involved. You just never know what each day will bring.

Posted by 1tigerfan (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 11:52 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I am friends with the family and just received a report on Mr. Cockerham. He sustained 2 broken legs, fractured face and had to have 6 pints of blood given to him. Also, many surgeries are expected. He is at UMC in Jackson, MS. Keep him in your prayers.

Posted by rperez (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 11:54 a.m. (Suggest removal)

My thoughts and prayers are with the family of all involved.....

Posted by september (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 11:55 a.m. (Suggest removal)

My prayers are with Mr. Cockerham and his family and also the children and their families.

Posted by september (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 11:59 a.m. (Suggest removal)

1tigerfan.....thanks for the up date. He is in our prayers

Posted by grits62 (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at noon (Suggest removal)

How insensitive for you to take that picture from that angle showing this bloody scene!!! There are over 40 families effected by this and this is the only angle you could find.

Posted by dixiemama (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 12:09 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I think Mr. Cockerham was going to retire after this school year, very sad. We all need to pray for his recovery & the children.

supermom
I agree this is not a very good thing for families to see in the paper.

Maybe this will enforce seat belts on buses!!! You can see kids jumping all over the bus. Just last year there was a terrible bus wreck not far from where this one was & serious injuries to a lady.

Posted by james (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 12:14 p.m. (Suggest removal)

N.D. YOU WILL DISABLLE A COMMENT SECTION OVER NOTHING HOW ABOUT PULLING THIS PHOTO ? NOW!

Posted by justmems (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 12:21 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Will you people stop already about the picture, it is news. Someone else would have complain that the ND was doing wrong if they didn't put in the picture, guess they can't win for losing. The important thing is that no children were seriously injured and now we need to focus on praying for Mr. Cockerham and his family. STOP being so petty about every thing, we should all be on our knees right now praising god because this could have been SOOOOO much worse.

Posted by mike8427 (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 12:23 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Monday night there was a 2 Concordia Parish school buses being escorted thru Natchez by VPD. They were not stopping for traffic signals and were driving fast. Does anyone know why? Sometimes they do this if they win a state championship, but I don't think it is a safe thing to do with kids on a bus

Posted by lsutiger21 (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 12:26 p.m. (Suggest removal)

mr. cockerham used to pick me up for school as well.
i hope he recovers and the children as well.

Posted by lroberts1 (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 12:30 p.m. (Suggest removal)

There was a garbage truck involved,two. looks like the bus must have ran into the garbage truck. I have know Mr. Cockerham most of my life here. he is a good man and a responsible driver, cares for all his children on those buses, Maybe it stopped in front of him. God I hope and pray all will be healed.I would love to see the seat belt laws made for the children. It makes no sense for the cars ,trucks, and not for all those children in those buses!!!!!
Thank God my grandchild was taken to school by the parents.

Posted by rose18 (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 12:53 p.m. (Suggest removal)

to you justmems i tell YOU one thing if that had been my family member i would be pissed if i seen that in the paper that is not right. have you had this happen to you with a family member i see not. are you would look at it in another way ha. may God be with the familys.

Posted by mslugirl (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 12:53 p.m. (Suggest removal)

ND>>>PLEASE remove this picture and do not put it on the front page of tomorrow's paper. This man has a wife, children, and grandchildren, as well as other family members and friends, who do no deserve to have to see this. It can be a newsworthy story without showing this particular picture. Surely there were other pictures taken that could be used. This family has suffered enough!

Posted by NoWireHangers (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 12:58 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Supermom....I'm with you. That photograph needs to be
pulled. ND, you could have gotten a photo at another angle that isn't as graphic.

Posted by MCormier (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 1:03 p.m. (Suggest removal)

My niece and nephew were both on the bus. They are both fine and I thank God for that. My prayers are with Mr. Cockerham.

Posted by justmems (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 1:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)

How is showing this picture any different that showing the picture of the truck that those children DIED IN in Natchez recently? I think this is a horrible thing that has happened and I'm praying for the family of all those involved. I'm sure that anyone with a close family member involved in this accident isn't looking at the ND today and when things settle down for them they will probably look at these pictures and be greatful that things didn't turn out any more tragic than they have. I know Mr. Cockerham would tell you if he could that he is greatful that no children were seriously injured and I'm sure he will say just that when he is doing better.

Posted by eagles (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 1:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)

It may not even be blood. It could be some type of automotive fluid, something from the garbage truck, etc. Let's not jump to conclusions. Thank goodness most are ok. Hope the driver recovers quickly. What about the people on the garbage truck? Are they ok?

Posted by bestwoman (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 1:10 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I agree! There should have been a few more pictures at a different angle. My prayers are with Mr. Cockerham, his family, and the children that was on the bus!! God Bless You All!!

Posted by crossfiregrandma (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 1:10 p.m. (Suggest removal)

My prayers are with each and every family member connected to this horrible accident. I thank God my granddaughter had her mom take her to school today.

I agree this photo is in poor taste and request that you substitute a different photo if you must use one at all.

Posted by Campbell (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 1:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)

A few years ago, one of my students was killed in a wreck. His dad was on the scene crying over his son's body. A newspaper photographer took a picture of them and it made front page. I immediately cancelled my subscription to that particular paper. That's a line that shouldn't have been crossed.

Posted by NatchezHighGraduate1993 (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 1:30 p.m. (Suggest removal)

My thoughts and prayers go out to all of the people involved with this incident.

To the Natchez Democrat: This photo is clearly in poor taste. Of all the the things that get removed from the comments section, this photo needs to be one of them. If reporters and photographers would ever place themselves in the shoes of some of the victims, I am sure this photo would not be on here. Where has the sensitivity of the world gone?

Posted by opinsab (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 1:32 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Stop about the picture already!! I am very close to the people that are close family relatives of the driver in this wreck and they are on there way to jackson from working out of town and the only way they got to see what it looked like was the democrat. This picture will not hurt anyone more than they have already been hurt!! What they need is for you to quit griping and start praying!! I dont see but a handful of people Stating that they are praying. I dont care if you ve never prayed a day in your life bow your head and pray!! Who cares whos fault it is? It doesnt matter what matters is these kids will probably never get on a bus again and the family of the Mr. Cockerham will need money and and support from us in the misslou!! Come together.

Posted by ucantfixstupid (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 1:39 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Would all of you get over the picture, the accident happened early this morning and by the time the picture was published I am sure all of the parents were aware that there had been an accident involving their children. It is part of news to show the public what occurred even if it is ugly.
My family prays for all that were invovled and hope the heal quickly.

Posted by fonkeytowngirl (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 1:42 p.m. (Suggest removal)

First of all, to lroberts, no the driver of the trash truck did not stop in front of the school bus. They were hit from behind and he is not being faulted for this accident. Let's just wait and really find out what really happened before we start jumping to conclusions on who could have possibly been in the wrong. I personally knew both drivers. As a matter of fact, i'm related to the driver of the trash truck. And thanks eagles for your concern and he is okay. He was released from the hospital and only suffered from minor injuries. Other than that he was unconscious for a little while. My heart also goes to the Cockerham family. I hope and pray that Mr. Cockerham's surgeries go well and that he can start his recovery process really soon. And lastly, as for the picture, I do hope that they have a different picture on the front page tomorrow because we really can't tell if that's blood or fluid from the bus.

Posted by AVidaliaCitizen (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 1:48 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Maybe this will get the bugs in the law enforcement agencies' ears. We need more patrols in the mornings. Rarely do I see any official patrolling in the morning. People are frantically running caution lights and squeezing through stop signs so that they can gain 2 minutes on the drive time. If the bus hit the truck in the rear, can you imagine how fast he must have been going to cause this damage? There are children all over the Vidalia highways and streets every morning, travelling in almost every vehicle. We have GOT to slow these drivers down. How lucky did we get this time? I wish Mr. Cockerham a speedy recovery and I hope that these children will not suffer from too much fear after this accident. And I am sure the lawsuits will start flying, and I pray for all of those people who will have to be involved with that. What a mess! And you are complaining about a picture?!

Posted by luckiestgirl (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 1:49 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I see nothing wrong with the picture. It illustrates just how bad the wreck was, so maybe even more people will pray for James and the children that were on the bus!! God bless you James, Sue and family!

Posted by callinitlikeitis (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 2:04 p.m. (Suggest removal)

i am a family member of james cockerham. we had already seen the bus at the wreck site. after he was med-evac'd to umc in jackson, we had to go to our homes to get clothes, etc to take to jackson. on the way to sue and james' home, the bus & garbage truck were still at the scene. while seeing the wreckage was difficult, it was much more difficult to see him in the shape he was in when they had him on the stretcher rushing to get him to the helicopter pad.

his injuries were a horrendous cut on his face which cut major arteries. he lost so much blood, he went into shock and his blood pressure bottomed out. he was given 6 pints of blood and will need more. the blood he received stabilized his blood pressure. also, he had 2 compound breaks in his left leg and one compound break in his right leg. we will not know the extent of any other injuries until umc assesses him.

he will have to have several surgeries. he is diabetic. the risk of infection is serious.

his wife, sue lost her son, jerry roberts, that was murdered in the waco, texas plane crash in december of 2006. now, she is going thru this. she is not in good shape at all. she has several family members in very poor health. she and all of our family need perpetual prayers.

we are okay with the photo with this article. our minds are on getting him free of pain and healed. we also have our minds on the children, we pray GOD continues to be with them and their families.

thank you.

Posted by countrygurl2010 (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 2:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Everybody at VHS are praying for the victims in this accident. We had a friend and brethern in the accident.

Posted by september (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 2:11 p.m. (Suggest removal)

callinitlikeitis.....thanks for the update. They are in our prayers

Posted by lookingout (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 2:19 p.m. (Suggest removal)

my prayers with all the families involved.....this must be the reason the cops have the road shut down in front of wal-mart i just came through there about 1 1/s hours ago and was wondering why it was shut down

Posted by lroberts1 (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 2:20 p.m. (Suggest removal)

IT MUST BE A TERRRIBLE JOB TRYING TO CONTROL THOSE KIDS. THEY WONT SET DOWN ,SO THEY NEED SEAT BELTS TO AUTOMATICALLY FASTEN WHEN THEY SET IN THE SEATS. CARS HAVE THEM SO WHY NOT THE SCHOOL BUSES THAT CARRY PRECIOUS CHILDREN. CURS ME IF YOU MUST, BUT THE BUS SHOULDN'T EVEN MOVE UNTIL EACH CHILD IS SAFE IN THE SEATS AND FASTENED IN.
THE BUSES THAT COME PAST MY HOME ARE MOVING WAY TO FAST, WITH THE KIDS UP WALKING ALL AROUND THE BUS. HOW CAN ANY ONE DRIVE AND CONCENTRATE WITH THAT GOING ON? I AM NOT BLAMING ANY ONE JUST SAYING A PRAYER FOR ALL CONCERNED , THE CHILDREN, THE DRIVER AND ALL THE FAMILY MEMBERS THAT ARE HAVING TO DEAL WITH THIS TERRIBLE "ACCIDENT".BOTH THE SCHOOL BUS AND THE GARBAGE PICKUP PEOPLE, THANKING GOD THAT IT WASN'T WORSE.
DOES ANYONE KNOW IF THE BOYS WERE STANDING ON THE BACK OF THE GARBAGE TRUCK? THAT'S WHERE THEY ARE WHEN THE PAST MY HOME.

Posted by firered (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 2:20 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Picture or no picture I am praying for all involved. I sure hope Mr. Cockerham will recover quickly from all of this. And maybe this will open some eyes in the mornings and help us realize that there are children everywhere out there and we all need to be a little more careful!

Posted by teachermom (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 2:56 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Everyone needs to be praying for everyone involved. Students from VHS were on there as well.

Posted by fonkeytowngirl (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 3:05 p.m. (Suggest removal)

callinitlikeitis thanks for the detailed update. my prayers are with you and the cockerham family at this time. i know both sue and james and they are nice people and i pray that she won't have to see an accident take her husband like it has her child. i hope that the family does stick close by her side as i know this has to be a very trying time for the entire family. if needed, i hope the family will open an account at one of the banks to help offset the expenses the family will have with all of the traveling and all that they'll have to do in the near future and not mentioning the time off from work they will have to have just to be there for him and for sue. good luck and keep us posted here if anything changes. i'm sure a lot of us will be checking the comments periodically to see what's new.

Posted by babev1 (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 3:05 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Campbell you may not be getting the paper at your house but that has not stopped you from looking at it!

Posted by countrygurl2010 (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 3:09 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I KNOW THAT I AM PRAYIN FOR EVERYONE ON THAT BUS B/C I RODE MR COCKERHAM'S BUS FOR 3 YEARS WHEN HE DROVE #11 HE WAS THE NICEST PERSON YOU COULD KNOW BUT WHEN I READ THIS MY HEART SUNK TO MY FEET B/C HE IS A VERY SPECIAL PERSON AND IM SO SAD EVERYTIME I READ THIS AND READ WHAT EVERYONE ELSE IS SAYIN. I PRAY FOR EVERY KID ON THAT BUS B/C I KNOW THAT THEIR PARENTS WHEN THEY HEARD THIS MORNIN WERE PROLLY FLIPPIN OUT B/C I WAS IN A SCHOOL BUS WRECK ONCE AND A LOG TRUCK SWIPPED US ON THE SIDE AND I KNOW THAT MY PARENTS WERE FREAKIN OUT EVEN THOUGH THERE WASN'T ANYTHING WRONG SO I CAN'T IMAGINE ABOUT THESE OTHER PEOPLE. I WILL KEEP EVERYONE THAT WAS ON THERE AND THEIR FAMILIES IN MY PRAYERS AND I WILL PRAY ESPECIALLY HARD FOR THE ONES WHO ARE REALLY HURT. THIS MAKES ME WANNA CRY.='( BUT EVERYONE PLEASE PRAY FOR THEM TOO.

Posted by freedom42 (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 3:13 p.m. (Suggest removal)

callitlikeitis, I am so sorry for everything that has happened. My prayers are with everyone injured, especially Mr. Cockerham. The children involved will need help getting through all this.

Posted by damifino (Gale Coleman) on October 8, 2008 at 3:15 p.m. (Suggest removal)

picture/no picture....that is not as important a discussion as would be one concerning why aren't seatbelts implemented on school buses. If they are required in cars, suv's and trucks and your children have to be buckled up, what sense does it make for them to get out of your car (after being buckled up)only to get on the bus and not be buckled up?!!! Why isn't there an uproar over that?

Posted by justthefactsman (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 3:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Also I would like the thank all the Firefighters, Police, Ems folks and everyone else that was on that wreck working to get those children and Mr. Cockerham out of that bus and the trash truck. Great job and ALL OF YOU are appeciated dearly by your community. Round of applause people come on!!!!

Posted by cmarie89 (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 3:25 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Seabelts really should be put on school buses; even though you can't really make EVERY child buckle up its makes a difference that some would. I wonder how the driver of the garbage truck and the garbage men were affected?

Posted by firered (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 3:27 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I agree justthefactsman.

Thanks to all those who helped with the wreck!!!!

Posted by jammin1 (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 3:30 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Go to the School Board Meeting tomorrow night at 6 PM and ask them why there aren't seat belts on the buses!!

I had a grandchild on that bus and thankfully the child is only bruised and scared. I didn't mind a bit that the picture was put up of the bus. I think it just drives home the point about the seat belt issue!

Posted by boredwithstupidity (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 3:48 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Prayers go out to ALL families involved.

As for the picture, put it on the front page! I just had an idiot blow his horn at me for not making a right hand turn on a red light in front of a whole string of school buses! I think some of these 'gotta be there yesterday' people better start waking up. Leave early enough that you aren't strapped for time. Are you in a hurry to get to the cemetery? I'm not!

Posted by concernedrn (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 3:53 p.m. (Suggest removal)

My prayers go to ALL involved, victims and their families. May God be with you all

Posted by picture_music101 (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 4:05 p.m. (Suggest removal)

N.D. Please reove the picture there is blood running down the bus! REMOVE it i dont want any students in the area to see PLEASE REMOVE IT!!!

Posted by Ashlyn357 (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 4:20 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I go to school (VJHS) with some of the students involved. My friend got sent to the hospital along with all of the students. There is blood on the front of the bus because the garbage truck had a man standing on the side the bus hit. A terrible tradgedy. Im keeping my friend, Mr.Cockerham, and the rest of the students in my prayers. I hope you do too.

Posted by lroberts1 (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 4:28 p.m. (Suggest removal)

ANY UP DATES????? AS OF 4;25 PM..

Posted by vikingfan (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 4:30 p.m. (Suggest removal)

The garbage truck was sitting at the traffic light in front of Wal-mart, and was hit from behind. Two men were inside the truck on the road. There was no one outside of that truck. My prayers go out to all of the families involved.

Posted by mommieof2 (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 4:47 p.m. (Suggest removal)

My son rode that bus. For some reason i did not put him on the bus today!! Im so sorry this has happened. Mr. Cockerham was a wonderful person. He was so caring and nice everytime we spoke! Im praying for him and his family. Also for the children on the bus I'm so glad none of them were seriously hurt, and i'm praying for you all too!! I don't know who is to blame but as far as i see it, why does it matter. Just be thankful no one was killed.

Posted by sayitloud (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 4:50 p.m. (Suggest removal)

callinitlikeitis the plane crash was not a murder, it TOO was an accident. paleeez, murder!
I too agree schoolbuses must have seatbelts for our children.

Posted by lroberts1 (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 5:05 p.m. (Suggest removal)

did MR.cockerham pass away??

Posted by sayitloud (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 5:13 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Let's hope not Iroberts1...think he is still in the hospital in Jacskon in critical. Let's all pray for this man.

Posted by speaknoevil (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 5:13 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Mr. James is NOT dead. He is going to have to have several surgeries, he is not yet stable enough for them to do surgery. He and his family need our prayers!!!

Posted by hopefloats (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 5:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Did any of the kids on the bus get hurt?

Posted by freedom42 (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 5:23 p.m. (Suggest removal)

sayitloud, ck your email!

Posted by lattelovingal (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 5:25 p.m.

(This comment was removed by the site staff.)

Posted by lattelovingal (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 5:27 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Two of the kids on the bus, both junior high students, did obtain injuries that will require surgery. One broke an arm, the other broke her hip and (not positive) but my son told me she was airlifted to Jackson.

Posted by lsu_princess (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 5:49 p.m. (Suggest removal)

As an answer for MIke....The bus that was traveling Monday night through Natchez was the vjhs football team coming back from a game in Meadville. My son and my step son were on that bus Monday night, as for the speeding through town Im not sure I was ahead of the bus, they were escorted by Vpd. No they should not be speeding through town, I agree. As for Mr Cockerham, my thoughts go out to him and his family. He is a good man my children have rode his bus for the last 6 yrs except for this year. My son and stepson attend vjhs and said that they had friends on the bus who were injured God be with those kids and tnheir families also.

Posted by Babbiegurl1 (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 5:49 p.m. (Suggest removal)

for those of you that dont know there are seatbelts on the buses. you know everytime a bus is involved in an accident the public blames the bus driver when in all actuallity they are not to blame. the person or people to blame is the public because the people that drive thier cars and trucks dont understand that these buses are just like 18 wheelers in a sense. the bus cannot stop on a dime just because you cut it off. not saying that is what happened. but the public needs to be made aware that everytime you cut a bus off, ride the bumber, and dont use your blinker and just come to a stop for no reason you put that driver and the passengers which are most times kids in danger. So as a bus driver I ask please have more courtesy for the buses and the precious cargo.

Posted by Lily_Dream (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 6:03 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Many thoughts and prayers to all the families of the injured involved. I am most thankful that those garbage truck men were not riding the back of the truck as usual. I have read that many are upset over the photo. I think we should lay off the photo and concentrate on the issue at hand. Many people were injured. SEAT BELTS on passenger buses is an issue that must be taken all the way to the Governor's mansion and beyond.

Once again, prayers and thoughts to all involved. God be with you!

Posted by emissary (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 6:05 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Vidalia PD WAS patrolling that exact section of highway this morning when I passed through Vidalia at 6:15 AM. I personally saw 2 separate "blue light warnings" to drivers who were going about 40.
In years past, school busses have not used seat belts because they act against the energy absorbing properties designed into the collapsing seats, seat frames, attachments to the floor, and body of the bus, without decreasing the overall level of human injury.
This has already changed in just a few of the newer busses, providing an increased chashworthiness.

Posted by sayitloud (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 6:16 p.m. (Suggest removal)

If seatbelts are available in newer models of school buses then I think they should destroy all the older ones to protect our children....what on earth is more precious than a child?
God be with this bus driver and I will pray for his complete recovery.

Posted by lroberts1 (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 6:16 p.m. (Suggest removal)

THANK GOD HE IS STILL ALIVE, MY PRAYERS GO OUT TO ALL OF YOU TONIGHT, I WILL ADD YOU TO OUR PRAY LIST IN CHURCH TONIGHT. THIS IS HEART BREAKING TO EVERY ONE I KNOW, mY RELIGION CAN BE CRITISISED ALL ANY ONE WANTS i DON'T CARE.

Posted by justme123 (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 6:20 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I just wonder if all these people talking about seat belts on buses are the same people who don't put their kids in carseat, booster seats or seat belts. I have seen plenty of people riding around with a child in the front seat by the air bag or holding a baby on their lap. Your child is in more danger by you doing that than they are by riding the school bus. Most kids who ride the school bus would not fit properly in a seat belt without a booster. In that case a seat belt would not do any good for them. It would hurt them more than it would help them. School buses are designed not to have seat belts on them. I have done my research on them before I put my kids on the bus. This is from a mom who kids still ride in a booster seat and carseat. I have 4 of them. 2 in a booster who are 7 and 6, and 2 in a carseat. One is 3 and the other is 3 months old. I know a lot of my friends don't even make their kids ride in seat belts.

Posted by realdeal1150 (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 6:25 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Mr. Cockerham is not dead but in critical condition. VPD called earlier to verify this. I believe the morning sun had a lot to do with this as there have been several wrecks in that area due to being blinded by it.
Hopefully the picture will drive home to some how quickly something terrible can happen to each of us. This is reality and not tv. I have heard it said, that can never happen here, but as you see it can.

As a responder I can tell you first hand that your whole body takes a beating when you respond to this type incident. Your heart races, the mind goes into overdrive, and all the training you have gotten over the years kicks in. You want to be able to take care of everyone but can only do one thing at a time. I applaude the VFD, and VPD for their quick response. Also the Concordia Fire District # 2 and Sheriff's office were onscene within minutes. Metro and AMR ambulance services did an outstanding job.

These organizations are what cooperation is all about. We worked as a team to care for the children and get Mr. Cockerham extracted from the wreckage as quickly as possible.

I also want to commend the nurses I saw inside the bus assisting with the injured. These ladies did an excellent job.

As far as seatbelts, go onto the internet and lookup information on the seatbelt in buses issue and you will find some interesting info on why you really don't want to strap a child down. Before you start complaining please check it out. Due to their weight and size more damage would possibly be done if they were strapped in.

One other thing I would like to add.... Two firemen were almost run down this morning by drivers talking on cell phones, taking pictures and just plain old not paying attention. One 18 wheeler never checked up but thankfully the men were able to get out of his way and avoid possible death. The speed limit at any accident scene in the State of Louisiana is 25 mph. Please slow down and pay attention to what is going on in front of you during times like this. The life you save may be one of your relatives or friends.

For everyone who drives safely we thank you.
God bless Mr. Cockerham and his family and all the families of the people involved in this accident.

Posted by jbeach (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 6:37 p.m. (Suggest removal)

My daughter was on the bus, she bruised her knee and it is swollen. She was lucky. My question is Why don't these NEW buses have seat belts? Beaumont Texas school buses have seat belts ours should also. What will it take a lot more serious wreck with dead children to make the school board wake up? We have to have seatbelts in our cars so should the buses. My prayers go out to the Cockerham family. Mr. Cockerham is a wonderful man. Thank God it wasn't as bad as it could have been.

Posted by GRACE1159 (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 6:51 p.m. (Suggest removal)

As far as the picture, yes it is 'graphic' but when are the "powers that be" in the City and Parish going to WAKE UP? Maybe this picture will burn it into their conscious so they will do whatever it takes to provide safety for our children and also school system. Pass laws and enforce legislation that will provide for safer transportation for our children (ie, seat belts, additional bus moniters,(any such thing as "air bags" for buses?then GET THEM), allowing the driver to control the children ). I do pray that all of the accident victims will recover rapidly to full physical and "emotional" health( from the traumatic experience). In Jesus' name, I pray that parents, grandparents and all other family members will be comforted by God and helped through this. I also pray, Father God, that people will come together for a common cause, that they will support each other and draw closer that this area of our country will be healed of division. In Jesus' name..AMEN.
To all who are affected by this accident, God bless you and may The Spirit of the Lord be with you from now forever more.

Posted by VHSMOM (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 6:55 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I am a mother of two VHS students who were on the bus, and I also knew Brother Cockerham. Thank the Lord for dispatching his angels around the bus and protecting the children on board! From what I understand MOST walked away with bumps and bruises. I think the worst of what I heard was how shook up the children were,..and I think we should also pray for their mental well being after this. Even though most children can amaze you at how they can "bounce back", I know it's gonna be hard for them. Espicially the little ones on board.
My children have told me there are NOT seatbelts on the bus, and I do believe that their should be. I also agree with the person who said to go to the school board meeting and MAKE this an issue instead of just complaining on here about it.
As for the picture, it didn't bother me, nor my children when we saw it. It was graphic, and maybe should be considered not o.k. for everyone. But,..then again, his family was on here and said it didn't affect them, so maybe we should let it drop.
I don't know how accurate all the stories are, and I'm sure not claiming mine to be right,..but I heard that the trash truck pulled in front of the bus without a turn signal, and "all of a sudden" put on their brakes. I heard Mr. Cockerham did all he could to not hit the trash truck, but it simply could not be avoided. I knew him as a very caring man, who simply would not have done something to endanger the children on his bus.
Last but not least,...let's put all this pettiness aside and please pray for the physical AND mental health of the children, the men in (and on) the trash truck, ..and most of all, for sweet Mr. Cockerham. May God Bless him and his family, and be by their side at this time.

Posted by kandykane (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 7 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I am a family member...PLEASE!...please be careful what you write here...we have already heard that James was dead- off the internet..I can tell you that he is not dead..he is having surgery done on his legs tonight, no less...it can be devastating to hear rumors like "he died" then to only find out that it is not true makes you very angry, so please be careful what you write...I was told that the garbage truck pulled over in the lane in front of James and hit the brakes..in order to try to miss the truck and save the children from harm, James veered to the right...but was not able to miss the truck completely ..and this was the result!

Posted by Johndeere06 (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 7:05 p.m. (Suggest removal)

http://www.ncsbs.org/news_2004/seatbelts...

Posted by lookingout (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 7:13 p.m. (Suggest removal)

so what i got out of that Johndeere06 is that they are more worried about how much it will cost....no amount of momey is worth my childrens life

Posted by hossfly (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 7:16 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I like to be critical of the ND. However, this is a tough call to make about the picture. The purpose of a newspaper is to report the news. If the news reported is factual and objective, it is hard to criticize the reporting of it. It really only makes sense to show the picture of the bus as related to the story of the wreck.

Posted by babev1 (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 7:17 p.m. (Suggest removal)

MY PRAYS ARE WITH THE FAMILYS OF ALL INVOLVED

Posted by cbeach (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 7:49 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Yes I am 1 of the students that were on that bus. Yes it was scary.
It is so wonderful that no student did not get hurt... Someone did break her hip and coler bone. We were on our way to VHS and VJH And the other ones. People do not understand it is not about the PICS BUT THAT THE KIDS AND THE DRIVER IS OKAY...... And i got a bruised Knee ans it is swollen.

Posted by bussurvivor (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 8:05 p.m.

(This comment was removed by the site staff.)

Posted by presby (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 8:10 p.m. (Suggest removal)

guess it might not be a good time,but the posted speed limit in our subdivision is 15 mph. The school bus comes by our house every evening with the gas to the floor. It is making at least 40mph or more. Something neesd to be done about excessive speeds. If someones child is ever on the other side of the hill in the road it won,t be pretty.

Posted by presby (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 8:12 p.m. (Suggest removal)

When schoolbuses run you off the road in the curves in your neighborhood something needs to be done.

Posted by sayitloud (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 8:16 p.m. (Suggest removal)

i AGREE....I live downtown Natchez and those buses go flying every morning and afternoon WITH children on them.

Posted by bolyert (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 8:44 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I do agree with you on that I was following my child's bus to school (he missed the bus that day) we were at the stop sign at the end of airport rd. I pulled out about the same time she did and I was doing about 65 and she was way ahead of me with children on the bus. When we got to the turn by the high school she pulled out in front of two cars coming in the other direction. I do agree too that they need lap seat belts at least my child is four and he actually should be in a booster seat (just for the record my child is always in his booster seat it don't matter if we are going next door). I never met Mr. Cockerham I did ride Mrs. Cockerham's bus though and she was as sweet as can be. I will have all the families involved in this terrible accident in my prayers and I hope everything goes well with the Cockerham family.

Posted by foghornleghorn (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 8:51 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I use to drive a bus. It is a big responsibility. As my old instructor used to say - Children are a very precious responsiblity that we are transporting every day.

Posted by dixiemama (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 8:51 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Journalism thrives off things like a bus that has blood from a man they is in extremely critical condition. His family does't need to see that. Neither do the students that were passengers.
What could a survivor have said to be deleted? It seems like the ND would be wanting to here from the survivors. That is unless they are already working a law suit.

Posted by foghornleghorn (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 8:53 p.m. (Suggest removal)

DM: This is the news. The ND did not create the situation. This is what newspapers do - report what happened.

Posted by bolyert (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 9:03 p.m. (Suggest removal)

to foghornleghorn i did not mean my comment in a bad way i do understand that not all bus drivers are like that my mom used to be a bus driver in natchez and i know she didn't drive like that but there are some that do and i know bus 23 does i also know that my mom made the little kids sit at the front of the bus this one didn't his first day of school he sat at the back and one of the kids was bullying him i told the bus driver about it and i wanted him to sit at the front she told me she hasn't assigned seats yet i was ok with that i do understand you can't do everything in a day but when he got on the bus that evening the big kid was doing it again ( my child fixed him) and the bus driver never knew anything about it so i guess what i am trying to say is i agree with the person that said they need other people on the bus to help watch the kids there are too many kids on a bus for one bus driver to keep an eye on

Posted by hopefloats (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 9:12 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Thoughts and prayers are with the bus survivors. Thanks for the comment. I think it was withdrawn because names of students were used.

Posted by emp (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 9:14 p.m. (Suggest removal)

We just called the hospital to check on Mr. Cockerham. They said he was, "critical but stable." 9:15pm

Posted by picture_music101 (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 9:15 p.m. (Suggest removal)

My friends where on the bus i ride 28 and we saw it from our last stop by the New courthouse....and it was a very scary seen..I am so happy that all my friends are fine...one had pulled muscles in her back and some of the others hit their legs on the seat but i still am happy they are ok...I am keeping mr.cockerham although i never have rode his bus but i hear he is a exellent driver...Im keeping him and the other students in my prayers

Posted by steve_o (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 9:19 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Concordiasentinel.com

"All but one of the students were treated and released by noon today, according to Supt. Loretta Blankenstein. One child suffered a hip injury."

Don't go there if a picture offends you.

Posted by south3rnstyle (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 9:23 p.m. (Suggest removal)

hello, personally, i think that all should stop worring about the dang picture already, there are human lives here that are more important than a picture. if you dont like it, dont look at it but M O S T important my sympathys are with each and every one associated with this accident. may god be with you. some may have heard bout the child that was killed on legrange rd in april 11, that was my son, devastated, angry and everything else i turned to our savior, i put my trust and everything in his hands. he is the way all you need to do is pray and believe in him, he will be there. my son rode ms. cokerhams bus in kindergarten, so i kinda knew them. and to cokerhams, i am gunna pray for you extreamly. please stay strong remember thank the lord for everything you have cause you just never know but give thanks that nothing was worse than what there was. i been there OUR FATHER PLEASE BE WITH ALL THESE FAMILY AND FRIENDS AS THEY NEED YOU NOW DEARLY, HELP THEM STAY STRONG AND HEAL ALL IN JESUS NAME WE PRAY (AMEN)

Posted by bolyert (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 9:26 p.m. (Suggest removal)

thanks for the update i pray he fully recovers

Posted by ingodwetrust (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 9:26 p.m. (Suggest removal)

i

Posted by countrylady (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 9:37 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I dont think the family members of the people that was injured is real concerned about this picture. i belive they are more concerned about their love ones, so stop complaining about the picture and think about what is really important the "people".

p.s everyone has really lost touch of what is really important these day, whats happening w/the world today.
god bless mr. cockerham and all of the children.

Posted by mommieof2 (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 9:41 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Do they still have cameras on buses?

Posted by cmarie89 (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 9:44 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I believe they do still have cameras on buses, why?

Posted by mommieof2 (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 9:46 p.m. (Suggest removal)

just curious!

Posted by Zoom (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 9:48 p.m. (Suggest removal)

emp, that is great news to hear about James. We have been praying for his recovery and his family. The picture is not important. This bus was in plain view for all to see on the main hwy for half of the day. Everyone who drove by saw this very same picture. It is no secret that he was hurt badly. Let's just all pray for James and make that our main concern.

Posted by cmarie89 (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 9:51 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Some of the kids aren't even gonna want to get on a bus anymore. :\

Posted by Babbiegurl1 (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 9:55 p.m. (Suggest removal)

to jbeach and others. I dont think that you are reading these other comments with understanding. Because if you were, you would see that these NEW busses as they are called DO HAVE SEATBELTS ON THEM!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! and that infact to wear those lapbelts will actually cause more harm to your small child than not wearing the lapbelt would. If you would research like others and stop complaining you would now what is going on. Most parents are not concerned or do not voice thier concern until one of thier children or someone close to them is involved in an accident or anything that cause strain on the life. Lets get real. We should go to the school board meetings, city council meetings, but lets go voice our opinions before something happens so it wont look like we are being ungrateful for the services that are provided for OUR children in Concordia Parish

Posted by Zoom (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 9:57 p.m. (Suggest removal)

south3rnstyle, I am very sorry to hear about the loss of your son. My heart goes out to you.

Posted by meluvcookies (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 10:09 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Mr. Cockerham is a PRECIOUS man! My kids used to ride his bus a few years ago until they became "too old" to ride it and I began taking them to school myself. He even dropped by our house to ask, "How's OUR girls doing?" He has a very sweet spirit and caring heart for all his children no matter their age. Mr. Cockerham, OUR girls as well as myself and my husband are praying for you! We love you and Mrs. Sue (whom, by the way, used to be my oldest daughter's bus driver when she was in elementary school quite a number of years ago). God bless you both and your families and also to the garbage truck men and their families, AND to all God's precious children involved and their families as well. Thanks to all the good work VPD, VSO, paramedics, nurses, VFD...EVERYONE!!!! We appreciate you more than you'll ever know!

Posted by foghornleghorn (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 10:23 p.m. (Suggest removal)

BBG1: I also have heard that seatbelts on a bus would cause more harm than good as well.

Posted by chazbear28 (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 10:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)

This picture is nothing compared to channel 8's report tonight. While you are all on your knees praying tonight, get ready to get up tomorrow and go to donate blood. This close hitting tragedy should make this an obvious thing for everyone to do, and soon. God bless everyone involved.

Posted by jammin1 (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 10:37 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I heard the same arguments used about seatbelts in cars too. Hogwash!!! I would rather my child be held in the seat than to fly through a windshield or window!!

Posted by vilou09 (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 11:05 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Mr. Cockerham used to drive the bus for my subdivision a few years back. He kept a strict schedule and a tight set of rules. He didn't play any games either lol.
He was a pretty cool guy when I rode his bus; kind of misunderstood at times. He came off as mean to some, but to others [countrygurl2010] he was the best, i suppose.
I never really had anything against him... all except for this ONE thing he did QUITE FREQUENTLY, and that was speed by my house.... with me standing outside. He would sometimes pretend he didn't see me standing under my carport [when i KNEW he did] and as he was approaching my house [a KNOWN bus stop on my street] he would tend to speed up; sometimes in excess of 35 mph. By the time he would pass my house, I would normally be in the middle of my driveway staring in awe of him passing me up. I was late to school many times in jr. high because of me not being able to run fast enough [haha..]
Picture it, if you will; you might get a laugh.
Anyhow, those days of riding the bus were NOT fun. Thank GOD this is my last year in high school, and I only spent HALF of my freshman year riding that bus. I was so scared to even start riding his bus when I was 12, because I heard he had narcolepsy... scary thing to think about everytime i went to school.
I really do hope that he makes it through all of this okay. He's in my thoughts and prayers, and should be in everyone else's too.

I also have a double-take on the situation though. He needs to SLOW DOWN. Enough said.

Posted by lsugirl1982 (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 11:14 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I was told by a close friend of the family that Ms. Sue was going in to see Mr. James at about 9:00pm and they were gonna try and start the surgeries. He needs our prayers.

Posted by mommieof2 (anonymous) on October 9, 2008 at 8:17 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Where do you go to give blood? Missed the news last night!

Posted by VHSMOM (anonymous) on October 9, 2008 at 12:36 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I'm still in shock, today, that my children were on this bus and walked away with minor injuries. Even though mine were two of the oldest on the bus, it was none the less scary for me. We all need to thank the lord for all no lives lost.
Any further news on Mr. Cockerham today? Did they have the first surgery? Is he awake?
Everyone continue to pray,............IT WORKS! :)

Posted by BIGSIS76 (anonymous) on October 9, 2008 at 1:02 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Oh My God...
Mr. Cockerham...Back in the day..I too pray that he will be healed in Jesus name...Family and co-workers be strong... keep the faith

Posted by presby (anonymous) on October 10, 2008 at 12:20 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I hope the man recovers fully and am very sorry for anyone injured in this wreck,but the folks driving the buses going mach 3 with their hair on fire know who they are,perhaps this might make people more aware that some buses are really flying in adams county,way over the posted speed limit,but if you pass one at the wrong time or hit a child they would hang that person. Doing 40 in a 15 mph zone or flying down morgantown road like their going to a fire is not good.