Repeat OUI Driver Caused School Bus Crash: Prosecutor

BERKLEY, MA — The woman charged with driving drunk for a second time caused the school bus crash that left several people, including children, seriously injured, prosecutors said.

Christy Gilpatrick, 27, of Warren, pleaded not guilty to charges of operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, second offense, and negligent operation of a motor vehicle. She was ordered held on $2,500 cash bail.

Prosecutors said Gilpatrick hit a car, spun out of control and veered in front of the the school bus, causing her car and a bus to go into a ditch. The bus was carrying 23 people - ranging from infants to the elderly - and several sustained serious injuries. It was returning to Tiverton, R.I., after a field trip to the Christmas lights at La Salette Shrine in Attleboro, Mass.

Gilpatrick told police she had one drink before hitting the road, according to prosecutors. Gilpatrick failed field sobriety tests, police said.

Her attorney said she was helping the injured, according to WHDH.

Gilpatrick will not be allowed to drive in Massachusetts and must attend AA meetings and submit to random alcohol checks.

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