Renita Smith evacuated 20 students from a burning school bus. On September 12, 2016, in College Park, Maryland, she spotted smoke and fire, stopped the vehicle, and helped the students get off. Once everyone was out, she climbed back on and walked down the aisle to check the seats and make sure no one was left inside.
The fire spread quickly and eventually destroyed the bus, but none of the students was injured, according to ABC News. Smith completed her inspection before walking away, and moments later the flames completely engulfed the vehicle.
Days later, firefighters recognized Smith’s actions, and county school officials organized a tribute to thank her for getting the students to safety during the emergency.
