NYS Bus Driver Bought Rifle while Working; Had Students with Him

A bus driver out in western New York was arrested this week and faces multiple charges after State Police say he purchased a rifle from a retail store while on the clock.  When police pulled him over, Deputies and Troopers said the driver had 12 students on board.

Bus Driver Stops to Buy Rifle

According to the New York State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation, David L Ferry from Canandaigua was arrested on Monday and charged with Criminal Possession of a Weapon on School Grounds (E Felony) and Endangering the Welfare of a Child (A Misdemeanor) after they received a complaint in progress.

State Police say that Ferry purchased a .22 caliber rifle and "was observed driving away in a Naples School Bus upon leaving the retail store."

What Did State Police Find?

Police conducted a traffic stop, and Ontario County Sheriff's Office Deputies found the bus on State Route 247 in Gorham.  While performing the stop,  Deputies and Troopers discovered 12 students were on the bus.

Thankfully, according to State Police, Ferry had the rifle "secured under a seat in the original package, and there was no ammunition."

The Naples Central School District employed the bus driver, and according to police, officials were notified and responded to the scene.

Was Ferry a Threat to the School?

State Police say that there is no indication that Ferry had any intent of carrying out school violence, and officials say there is no "credible threat" to the students or the staff.

Ferry was processed at SP Canandaigua and issued appearance tickets for the Gorham Town Court on February 18, 2025, at 5:30 p.m.