The Shadow
COVINGTON, Va. (VR) – On February 10, 2026, at approximately 8:14 am, the Covington Division of Police received a call about a motor vehicle accident involving an “Alleghany Highlands Public School System” bus and a 2017 Chevy Silverado near the intersection of South Marion and West Oak Street.
Police, EMS, and Fire were dispatched due to the nature of the incident and, upon arrival, found that the bus was occupied by 18 students at the time of the accident.
The 2017 Chevy Silverado was occupied by the driver and a student. Fire and EMS managed the accident scene and aided those in need. EMS transported the driver of the Silverado to the regional hospital for further evaluation, and no student was transported for treatment.
The Covington Division of Police investigated the accident and determined that the bus attempted to pass the Silverado on the left when the Silverado was making a left turn. The bus driver, Franklin Ratliff, Jr., was charged with § 46.2-838 “Improper Passing.”
During this incident, the AHPS staff assisted emergency personnel throughout the response and cooperated with the investigation. Once the students were released,
AHPS staff ensured that all the students aboard the bus contacted their families to notify them of the accident.
If you can provide any further information on this incident, please contact Officer Paxton at 540-965-6333 or via email at policeinfo@covington.va.us.
