School Bus Emergency: 12-Year-Old Boy Injured After Falling Through Exit on Laingholm Drive
By Diyatha News New Zealand (Lions Roar Aotearoa) Community Safety Desk
AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND — Friday, February 6, 2026 — A terrifying incident unfolded in West Auckland this afternoon when a 12-year-old student fell out of a moving school bus. The accident occurred just after 3:30 PM, sending shockwaves through the local school community during the busy afternoon drop-off.
The student was traveling on a service from Glen Eden Intermediate toward Laingholm when the incident took place on Laingholm Drive.
1. The Incident: A Fall Through the Emergency Exit
Auckland Transport (AT) has confirmed that the young boy exited the vehicle through an emergency door located at the rear of the bus.
- Driver Response: According to AT service operations manager Duncan McGrory, the bus was traveling at a slow speed at the time. The driver immediately pulled over, checked on the student’s welfare, and radioed the depot to call for emergency services.
- First Aid: Onlookers and schoolmates were left shaken as first responders arrived at the scene to treat the boy on the roadside.
2. Medical Status: Stable but Injured
Hato Hone St John and NZ Police responded promptly to the emergency call.
- Injuries: Police have described the boy’s injuries as moderate.
- Hospitalization: He was stabilized at the scene before being transported to the hospital. As of late this afternoon, he is reported to be in a stable condition.
3. The Investigation: “Getting to the Bottom of It”
The cause of the emergency door opening while the bus was in motion is now the subject of an intensive investigation.
- AT & Contractor Review: Auckland Transport and their bus contractor are conducting a joint safety audit of the vehicle involved.
- Police Inquiry: NZ Police are also conducting their own inquiries to determine if the door was opened manually or if a mechanical failure occurred.
4. Safety Concerns for Parents
The incident has raised immediate questions among West Auckland parents regarding the safety of school transport and the security of emergency exits. Glen Eden Intermediate has been notified, and support is likely to be made available for students who witnessed the traumatic event.
