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A serious driver shortage at OC Transpo in early 2019 influenced the decision to allow a driver involved in a prior crash to return to service, according to testimony at the Westboro bus crash inquest. Ken Gordon, then-manager of bus operations, admitted he allowed Aissatou Diallo back on the road despite a serious crash one month earlier due to pressure to maintain transit service.
On January 11, 2019, Diallo drove a double-decker bus that collided with a bus shelter at Westboro station, killing Judy Booth, Bruce Thomlinson, and Anja Van Beek. The city accepted civil responsibility, but Diallo faced 38 charges of dangerous driving before being acquitted in 2021.
Diallo had crashed a 60-foot bus into another at St-Laurent station in December 2018, resulting in injuries and a write-off. Operational and political pressures influenced the decision to retrain rather than terminate her, despite being on probation and lacking bus driving experience.
Gordon acknowledged that safety took a back seat during that period, citing the agency’s struggle with a mass driver exodus following LRT-related layoffs. OC Transpo continued hiring drivers without route guarantees, contributing to a strained system.
He defended the experience of the remedial instructor but regretted not recommending Diallo’s termination. The shortage meant unsuitable candidates were hired, some unfamiliar with Ottawa’s routes and needing constant guidance.
Gordon endorsed the installation of driver-facing cameras and real-time telematics to improve accountability and safety. He also recommended more thorough driver testing, mentorship programs, and independent training from operations.
Source: Swifteradio.com
