Bus Driver Admits Mixing Fentanyl, Alcohol During School Trip

UPDATE: A 71-year-old bus driver, Richard Arthur Potratz, has admitted to mixing alcohol with narcotics while driving a charter bus filled with 52 grade school students from Saskatoon on March 14, 2023. The shocking revelation came during a court appearance in Saskatoon, where Potratz expressed remorse for his dangerous actions that put countless lives at risk.

The incident unfolded when parents reported an erratic driver near Highway 16 and 71st Street around 6 p.m. CST. Authorities confirmed they found Potratz incapacitated in the back seat of a car driven by a concerned parent, after the bus had been seen swerving dangerously. “I take full responsibility for what happened that day,” Potratz stated, acknowledging the fear he caused among students and staff.

Potratz, who had been employed by Prince Albert Northern Bus Lines for over a decade, revealed that chronic back pain had driven him to mix fentanyl and hydromorphone with alcohol. During his emotional plea, he described his pain as a “12 on a scale of one to ten.” Despite his struggles, he recognized that his decision to drive under the influence was a “stupid decision.”

A teacher on the bus shared a harrowing account of the event, stating, “It was the scariest incident ever… What if we die?” This teacher, who chose to remain anonymous, emphasized the terrifying moments as they attempted to secure the students while the bus veered across lanes. “I thought of the Humboldt Broncos fatal crash,” they recalled, highlighting the grave risks involved.

Crown prosecutor Janyne Laing presented a victim impact statement detailing how the incident affected not just the students and teachers aboard, but also other drivers on the highway that day. Laing characterized the event as having a “real and profound impact” on everyone involved.

In court, Potratz delivered an apology letter to the staff and students of Holliston Elementary School. “I put fear in your hearts,” he said tearfully. “I regretted it then, I regret it today, and I will regret it for eternity.” His admission of guilt included an acknowledgment that he believed he could control his alcohol consumption, only to realize it had taken control of him.

Prosecutor Laing proposed a conditional sentence of two years less a day to be served in the community, which would include a two-year driving prohibition, curfew, addiction counseling, and community service. Potratz did not contest the proposal, and Judge Brad Mitchell has reserved his decision for a later date, stating, “The facts are extremely concerning.”

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of impaired driving, particularly when vulnerable children are involved. As authorities continue to review the case, the community remains on alert, reflecting on the potential tragedy that was narrowly avoided.

Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as the court deliberates the appropriate sentencing for Potratz.