Lexington, Kentucky, January 21, 2026
A Fayette County school bus driver was arrested for DUI after allegedly causing two collisions while driving under the influence in Lexington, Kentucky. No children were aboard during the incidents. The driver, Carla Padgett, exhibited signs of impairment and was charged with operating a vehicle under the influence and leaving the scene of an accident. She has been released on recognizance. This incident has raised concerns about safety protocols for school bus drivers in the district.
Fayette County School Bus Driver Arrested for DUI After Two Alleged Drunken Bus Crashes
Lexington, Kentucky – A Fayette County school bus driver was arrested and charged with driving under the influence (DUI) after allegedly causing two separate vehicle collisions while on her route on January 16, 2026. The incidents occurred around 8 a.m. on Wiseman Drive in Lexington. Notably, no children were on board the bus during either collision.
According to the arrest citation, 59-year-old Carla Padgett was cited for operating a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol with a blood alcohol content of 0.08% or higher. Officers responded to reports that the school bus had struck two vehicles and that Padgett appeared to be under the influence due to the odor of alcohol detected on her. During the investigation, Padgett exhibited signs of impairment, including bloodshot, watery eyes, and an inability to follow directions. She was subsequently arrested and charged with operating a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol and leaving the scene of an accident/failure to render aid or assistance. Court records indicate that Padgett was released on recognizance.
The Fayette County Public Schools (FCPS) district has strict expectations for students and motorists to ensure safety. Riding a school bus is considered a privilege, and any condition that could result in injury to a student is deemed unsafe. Drivers are required to stop the bus until the situation is remedied, and they may seek assistance from the Transportation Division if necessary.
This incident highlights the critical importance of adhering to safety protocols and the severe consequences of impaired driving, especially when operating vehicles transporting children. The community is urged to remain vigilant and report any unsafe conditions to maintain the safety of all students and staff.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What charges were filed against the Fayette County school bus driver?
The driver, Carla Padgett, was charged with operating a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol and leaving the scene of an accident/failure to render aid or assistance.
Were any children on the bus during the collisions?
No, there were no children on board the bus during either collision.
What are the safety expectations for Fayette County Public Schools bus drivers?
FCPS bus drivers are expected to ensure the safety of students by adhering to strict safety protocols, including stopping the bus until any unsafe conditions are remedied and seeking assistance from the Transportation Division when necessary.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Wiseman Drive, Lexington, Kentucky |
| Date and Time | January 16, 2026, around 8 a.m. |
| Driver’s Age | 59 years old |
| Charges Filed | Operating a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol, leaving the scene of an accident/failure to render aid or assistance |
| Presence of Children on Bus | No children were on board during the collisions |
| Outcome | Driver released on recognizance |
Now Happening on X
- @lexkypolice (January 16, 2026, 1:19 AM) One person has been arrested following a homicide on Larkin Road in Lexington. View on X
- @LEX18News (January 19, 2026, 9:00 PM) Ku Klux Klan fliers were distributed in a downtown Lexington neighborhood late Sunday night and early Monday morning, alarming residents ahead of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. View on X
- @ABC36News (January 15, 2026, 4:35 PM) A homicide investigation is underway after a woman was found dead on Larkin Road in Lexington. View on X
- @WLKY (January 19, 2026, 2:54 AM) A man was injured after a shooting on Lexington Road; Lexington police are investigating. View on X
- @FOX56News (January 20, 2026, 9:51 PM) Lexington’s Office of Homelessness Prevention and Intervention has extended its Emergency Winter Weather Plan through January 26 due to cold conditions. View on X
- @ABC36News (January 15, 2026, 1:48 PM) An investigation is underway after a late-night house fire in Lexington. View on X
- @ImNoBetterThanU (January 21, 2026, 12:36 AM) A suspect facing burglary and terroristic threatening charges in Lexington evaded capture by gunshot. View on X
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Lexington School Bus Overturns After Road Collapse
Thanksgiving Day Travel Sees Increased Activity in Lexington
Kentucky Wildcats Dominate Loyola of Maryland 88-46
Severe Weather Expected in Lexington, KY
Kentucky Utilities Achieves Top Honors in Customer Satisfaction
Fayette County Public Schools Faces $16 Million Deficit
FCPS Hosts Third Annual Bus-A-Treat Halloween Event
I-75 in Madison Reopens Ahead of Schedule
Lexington Teen Charged After Reckless Five-Vehicle Crash
Lexington Family Raises Safety Concerns Over Bus Protocols
Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON KY STAFF
The LEXINGTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELexingtonKY.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Lexington, Fayette County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Woodland Art Fair, Crave Food and Music Festival, and Railbird Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like Commerce Lexington and Blue Grass Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in education, manufacturing, and technology that power the local economy such as University of Kentucky, Toyota Motor Manufacturing, and Lexmark. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBowlingGreen.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.
