Investigators Identify Alleged Bus Driver Who Fatally Struck Man In Center City
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Authorities say a 46-year-old man died after being struck by a bus in Center City Tuesday morning.
On Wednesday, police identified the alleged bus driver as 66-year-old Walter Jefferson.
"Dragged the pedestrian about 50 feet. And left the scene," said Philadelphia Police Captain John Wilczynski.
Authorities say 46-year-old Joseph Heard was walking in the crosswalk of Franklin and Race Street across from police headquarters a little before 10 a.m. Tuesday.
"The pedestrian and bus are doing the same direction. They are both heading east. The pedestrian is about halfway through the crosswalk when the bus making the turn, left turn runs over the pedestrian," said Capt. Wilczynski.
Investigators say Heard was on his way for kidney dialysis before getting hit.
"It happens unfortunately quite often where the driver or someone on the bus doesn't realize they struck something or somebody," said Capt. Wilczynski.
The man was rushed to the hospital where he was pronounced dead.
The suspected bus was heading to Washington D.C.
"We have officers down there inspecting the bus, talking with the driver and trying to get more information to piece this together," said Capt.Wilczynski.
Authorities say 19 people were on the bus at the time and authorities are reaching out to speak with them.
Officials say Jefferson denies being distracted, but police plan to issue a warrant to obtain cell phone records.
So far, no charges have been filed.
This marks the city's eighth fatal hit and run. Last year, the city had seven.
