WINNIPEG — Police may never be able to speak to the driver of a bus involved in a crash that killed 17 people a year ago near Carberry, Manitoba, an RCMP official said Thursday.
“We must respect the driver’s privacy, but I can say that the accident caused him serious medical problems, which means that he is unable to provide the answers we would like to obtain,” said the superintendent. Rob Lasson, Officer in Charge of Major Crime Services with the Manitoba RCMP.
Two days before the first anniversary of the tragedy, Mr. Lasson thanked the families of the victims for their patience.
“This investigation was very complex, unique and required a large amount of diverse resources,” he emphasized.
The bus was transporting 25 seniors from Dauphin, Manitoba to a casino near Carberry on June 15, 2023.
The vehicle was on Highway 5 and crossing the Trans-Canada Highway when it collided with a semi-trailer.
Police said the tractor-trailer had the right of way and traffic was light.
The RCMP were able to speak to witnesses, including survivors of the crash, conduct analyzes on both vehicles and review forensic reports, Lasson said.
She submitted her findings in January to the Crown prosecutors’ office, which has not yet decided whether to lay charges. The superintendent expects a decision soon, but has not given a specific date.
The City of Dauphin will mark the first anniversary of the tragedy on Saturday by unveiling a monument in memory of the victims.
The Canadian Press
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