No drugs in driver of Am.F. band bus

PROVO — Idaho police are wrapping up an investigation into the bus crash that killed an American Fork High band instructor and expect to present their findings to prosecutors next week.

Toxicology reports show there were no drugs in the system of the bus driver, Debra Jarvis of Spanish Fork. But authorities say she may face charges of continuing to drive when she knew she was ill.

"She said she thought she could make it to the next rest area," Idaho State Police Lt. Ismael Gonzales told the Deseret News. "She should have pulled over."

It is still unknown what medical condition caused Jarvis, 50, to pass out as she drove members of the American Fork High School marching band home Oct. 10 from a competition in Pocatello, Idaho. However, Gonzales said students reported hearing her tell a teacher she did not feel well but that she thought doing some breathing exercises would make her feel better.

Once police have gathered the last of the medical records they are seeking, Bannock County prosecutor Mark Hiedeman will decide whether to file charges. Idaho state law forbids anyone who is sick or fatigued from driving a commercial vehicle, Gonzales said.

Woodwinds instructor Heather Christensen, 33, tried to grab the wheel as the charter bus veered off I-15 and rolled over. She was partially ejected and died at the scene from her injuries.

e-mail: pkoepp@desnews.com