Catalytic converter thefts expected to disrupt several Waukesha school bus routes

WAUKESHA, Wis. (CBS 58) -- Some school transportation services in Waukesha are expected to be delayed or canceled Thursday morning after First Student Inc. says 23 catalytic converters were discovered missing from buses in their lot. 

The City of Waukesha Police Department said the incident happened overnight at First Student Inc. The discovery was made early Thursday, June 5, prior to the start of scheduled student pickups. 

One parent in the Waukesha School District received an email stating in part, “catalytic converters were stolen, rendering buses 18, 19 and 20 undriveable. There will be no routes running for these buses this morning, and students must find an alternative way of getting to school. Any students late or absent due to this issue will be excused.”

In a statement on social media, Waukesha Police wrote in part, "This type of crime not only impacts property but directly affects the daily lives of students and families. We are dedicating a significant amount of investigative resources to identify those responsible and bring them to justice.”

Several routes are expected to be delayed or canceled as officials and the bus company coordinate with affected families.

“It’s close. I don’t live real far from here, but it’s close. You just have to keep your eyes open everywhere you are," said Judy Medina, a resident. “That’s terrible. It’s terrible that people have to do that.”

A statement from First Student said in part, "Our team noticed catalytic converters had been removed from 23 buses when they arrived at the facility this morning. Police and the district were notified about the incident. We are currently working to bring in buses from other First Student locations nearby with the goal of operating all routes this afternoon."

Investigators are taking a look at surveillance footage and seeking tips from the public.

First Student was able to get 17 busses from other locations in time for afternoon release. The school district says all routes will be running as usual, Friday Morning. 

Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Chris Bloom at (262) 524-3785.