Three dead in devastating Westboro Station bus collision, police investigating cause

By Mike Vlasveld

The City of Ottawa says three people have died in a horrific bus crash at Westboro Station, along the city's Transitway, and the bus driver has been taken into Ottawa police custody.

The OC Transpo Route 269 bus, headed to Bridlewood, was nearly sheared in half when it hit the roof of the bus station, overhanging the platform, at 3:50 p.m. Friday.

A a 7 p.m. news conference, Mayor Jim Watson said one person who had been standing on the platform was killed, along with two passengers on the bus.

Overall, 23 people were injured, 17 of whom had to be taken to hospital. After 5 p.m., the Ottawa Hospital had said that nine people were in in critical condition, however Ottawa paramedics said several are in serious condition as of the 7 p.m. City of Ottawa news conference.

The Ottawa Police Service said the bus driver was taken to custody, and is cooperating with officers as they investigate the cause of the crash.

Chief Charles Bordeleau would not elaborate, but said “something led us” to arresting the driver. She is expected to be interviewed.

The OPS said it is working with its partners from the Ontario Ministry of Transportation and Transport Canada. The MTO is assisting with the inspection of the bus. Transport Canada is conducting a study on serious collisions.

OC Transpo said riders can expect delays Friday night, as routes in the city's west side area are being rerouted.

Scott Street is expected to be closed for several hours, as well as the Transitway between Westboro and Tunney's Pasture.

The Churchill Seniors Centre at 345 Richmond Road is open to residents seeking information about family members involved in the collision.

The Canadian Red Cross is also offering help at this time.

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