RIPTA “Heartbroken” over Bus Accident that Killed Providence Girl, 9
Thursday, March 26, 2015
Raymond E. Studley, CEO, of RIPTA, & Warwick Mayor Scott Avedisian, Chairman of RIPTA’s Board of Directors address the press after a RIPTA bus struck and killed a 9 year olf girl in Providence Thursday morning.
“It’s been a very difficult day for RIPTA, and for me personally,” said Studley. “Our hearts are broken over this.”
The accident happened shortly before 8:45 a.m. on Smith Street, just west of Holden St. The bus was traveling west on Smith Street and was near the intersection of Holden Street when the accident occurred.
GET THE LATEST BREAKING NEWS HERE -- SIGN UP FOR GOLOCAL FREE DAILY EBLASTPending an internal investigation, RIPTA is not releasing the name of the driver. According to Studley, the driver has been driving for RIPTA for 16 years, and is “having a difficult time - he is a softball coach for girls about the same age as the victim.”
The driver has been placed on leave, and has undergone drug and alcohol testing, which, according to Studley, is standard procedure for all accidents in which RIPTA drivers are involved.
There were no serious injuries to riders on the bus, but one woman complained of a hand injury, and refused medical treatment at the scene.
Providence Schools released a statement on Thursday afternoon, saying, “We have learned that a young girl who was a third grade student at one of our Providence Schools was the victim of a fatal pedestrian traffic accident this morning. Our collective hearts are heavy, and we extend our deepest sympathies to her family in this time of unimaginable tragedy. We are equipping the school with additional counseling and crisis supports, and will be reaching out directly to the families of students in her class. We respectfully ask that media give the school and the families space and time to receive and process this terrible news.”
Avadesian urged anyone who witnessed the accident or has any information to contact the Providence Police at (401) 272-3121.
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