The deadly Westboro bus crash that claimed three lives in January 2019 continues to have lasting repercussions. The OC Transpo Bus 8155 collision, which occurred just eight seconds after leaving the Transitway, resulted in the deaths of Judy Booth, Bruce Thomlinson, and Anja Van Beek, with many others injured. A coroner’s inquest, which began Wednesday, aims to prevent similar tragedies.
The inquest recounted the events leading up to the crash, detailing how driver Aissatou Diallo, with six months of experience, was operating the double-decker bus on Route 269. The investigation highlighted previous concerns about speed adjustments in a past collision involving Diallo.
Evidence presented included speed data, road conditions, and Diallo’s actions leading up to the crash. The bus struck snowbanks, a rock wall, and the shelter canopy at varying speeds, with experts providing conflicting estimates. The court had previously acquitted Diallo, citing road markings and other factors.
The inquest also examined structural failures in the bus, the extent of passenger injuries, and possible environmental factors like sun glare. Jurors will now hear testimonies and review recommendations aimed at improving transit safety.
Source: Swifteradio.com
