MTA Chair and CEO Janno Lieber addressed a range of topics during a press conference last Friday, including transit service arrangements for the upcoming US Open. However, he also had to address a more serious matter – the suspension of a bus driver who left the scene after a tragic collision on August 6.
The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) has placed bus operator Michele Washington on withheld from duty pending dismissal as the investigation into the collision continues. Michele Washington joined NYC Transit on April 24, 2022, according to the MTA.
During a press conference, Lieber expressed his concern for the individuals involved in accidents, stating, “Whenever there’s a collision or a pedestrian injury and a death, the first thing that we think about is the family and the person.” While acknowledging that he did not have all the details of the incident, Lieber mentioned that the Police Department was conducting an investigation. He emphasized that losing a person, especially in a mass transit accident, deeply impacts the city. Lieber assured that the situation was being handled by taking the bus driver off duty during the investigation and promised to provide further updates once more information became available.
Amesha Keys, a 31-year-old resident of St. Albans, tragically lost her life in a fatal accident. The incident occurred when a bus made a left turn from Baisley Boulevard onto Bedell Street in Rochdale, colliding with Amesha Keys.
At approximately 10:36 p.m., a distress call was placed and emergency medical services swiftly transported the victim to Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, according to the police. Tragically, Keys was pronounced dead by hospital staff. The bus operator involved in the incident did not stay at the location. As of now, no arrests have been made in connection with the incident.
According to The Daily News, the Q85 bus in Washington was in operation.
The NYPD was contacted by The Chronicle to inquire about whether the bus driver continued driving or left the vehicle. However, an NYPD spokesperson stated that the investigation by the CIS is still ongoing.
A beloved mother, daughter, sister, and friend, Keys’ family has set up a GoFundMe campaign to raise $25,000 in support.
Pedro Sotomayor, the organizer of the fundraiser, fondly remembers Amesha as a beacon of light to everyone around her. He emphasizes that her way of living in love and radiating that love to those she encountered truly reflects her character. Amesha’s infectious smile brought comfort and joy to all fortunate enough to witness it. The unexpected loss of Amesha has deeply affected both her family and friends. In light of this, the organizers are humbly requesting donations to give Amesha a loving farewell and to ensure the immediate needs of her daughter are met.
According to a post on her Facebook page, a family member of Keys announced that the funeral service for the young woman will take place at the Community Church of Astoria located at 14-42 Broadway. The service is scheduled for Tuesday, August 20, and will be held from 4 to 6 p.m.
