Daijiworld Media Network - Washington
Washington, May 30: At least five people were killed and nearly 40 others injured after a major motorcoach crash on Interstate 95 in Virginia, where a bus struck multiple vehicles near a construction work zone, triggering a federal investigation and sharp criticism of driver licensing and safety oversight.
According to authorities, the crash occurred around 2:35 a.m. in Stafford County when a bus operated by E&P Travel failed to slow down in time and collided with a line of stopped traffic on the highway.
The impact set off a chain reaction involving several vehicles, including a Chevrolet Suburban and an Acura SUV. Officials said the Acura caught fire following the collision, resulting in the deaths of four occupants, while one additional fatality occurred in the Suburban. Among the victims were two children, aged 13 and 7, according to law enforcement.
Virginia State Police confirmed that multiple vehicles were struck in the crash after the bus reportedly hit six vehicles in total before coming to a stop. Investigators said the sequence of impacts remains under review.
The incident has drawn strong reaction from US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, who questioned driver training and licensing standards in a post on social media platform X. He stated that the driver of the motorcoach had been issued a commercial driver’s licence in New York in 2024 and that authorities are now reviewing licensing and training records.
Duffy also claimed that the driver did not speak English, calling it “unacceptable” and emphasising the need for stricter enforcement of communication and safety requirements for commercial drivers operating passenger vehicles in the United States.
Federal agencies, including the National Transportation Safety Board and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, have launched a detailed investigation into the crash. They are examining driver history, licensing documentation, company compliance, and operational safety procedures.
Authorities said the bus driver could face potential charges depending on the outcome of the investigation.
The crash involved a bus travelling from New York City to Charlotte, North Carolina, and has raised renewed concerns about highway safety, particularly in construction zones where traffic congestion and sudden slowdowns are common.
Officials have assured that further findings will be released as the investigation progresses.