Ohio’s third-largest city has a neighborhood that is known to be pedestrian-friendly. Unfortunately, it was not friendly on a recent Wednesday night at approximately 7:30 p.m. That is when a fatal accident occurred that involved a Metro bus and two pedestrians. The investigation into the crash remains active, and police are asking any witnesses that they have not already spoken with to contact them.
So far, authorities have determined that as a bus approached an intersection, the driver made an improper turn. When the bus turned, it struck a 73-year-old man and his daughter who were on the sidewalk. The man suffered fatal injuries to which he succumbed at the scene. His 41-year-old daughter survived with injuries that were not considered to be life threatening. Her condition was last reported to be stable.
The 57-year-old driver of the bus is also a Chaplain for the Cincinnati and Colerain Township Fire Departments, and he is cooperating with the investigation. At this time, investigators do not believe that speed, reckless driving or impairment were factors in the crash. A blood test from the driver was submitted for testing.
Once the investigation is complete, prosecutors will make a determination as to whether any criminal charges are appropriate. Meanwhile, the family of the deceased victim retains the right to file a wrongful death claim in an Ohio civil court against the driver and any other parties who might be liable for his death. His daughter may also file a personal injury claim seeking compensation for the injuries she suffered in connection with this fatal accident.
Source: fox19.com, “Cincinnati FD Chaplain was driver of Metro Bus that fatally stru“, Brad Hawley, Jennifer Baker and Kara Foxx, Jan. 27, 2016