" This morning we received multiple media requests regarding the MBTA/BPS school bus accident. In our quest to be as responsive as possible to the media we issued a statement indicating a preliminary investigation suggested the BPS driver was at fault. Upon a more thorough review of the incident I present you with the following; at approximately 5:43AM on March 26, 2018 an MBTA bus, Route 44, being driven by a 57 year old male and 20 year employee of the MBTA failed to stop for a flashing red light at the intersection of Columbus Ave and Washington Street in Egleston Sq. The MBTA bus collided with the BPS bus which had already entered into the intersection. No children were on board the BPS bus. Five (5) passengers on board the MBTA bus reported minor injuries as a result of the impact and were either treated on scene or transported to local area hospitals for treatment. The matter remains under investigation. That being said at this stage of the investigation we know enough, with confidence, the MBTA bus operator will be issued a Massachusetts citation for Failure to Stop. (M.G.L. Chapter 89 Section 9).
We regret the error. At the Transit Police we attempt to be as transparent as possible especially with the media for incidents such as these. I accept full responsibility for the unintended misinformation released earlier. We are grateful no one was seriously injured and particularly grateful school children were not on board at the time of the incident."
media inquiries should be directed to Superintendent Richard Sullivan at rsullivan@mbta.com
the events listed above are allegations; All defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt
