CLEARWATER, Fla. — Authorities are investigating a tragic crash in Clearwater on Saturday evening that left one person dead after being struck and pinned beneath a bus.
According to initial reports, the incident occurred on Gulf to Bay Boulevard near Park Place Boulevard, a heavily traveled stretch of roadway. Clearwater Police and Fire Rescue units responded shortly after receiving 911 calls about a person trapped under a bus following a collision.
When emergency crews arrived, they found the victim underneath the bus. Despite immediate efforts to provide lifesaving aid, the individual was pronounced deceased at the scene. Officials have not yet released the victim’s identity, pending notification of next of kin.
The bus involved in the crash was halted in the roadway as investigators and first responders worked at the scene. Witnesses described a chaotic and heartbreaking moment as traffic came to a standstill and emergency crews blocked off several lanes in order to conduct rescue operations and begin the investigation.
Clearwater Police have confirmed that a full traffic homicide investigation is underway to determine the circumstances that led to the fatal incident. Details such as whether the victim was a pedestrian, a bicyclist, or a passenger attempting to board remain unclear. Authorities say more information will be released once it is confirmed.
The crash caused significant traffic delays on Gulf to Bay Boulevard, with drivers urged to seek alternate routes while investigators worked for several hours in the area.
Police are asking anyone who witnessed the crash to come forward with information to assist in the ongoing investigation.
As the community awaits additional updates, the incident stands as a somber reminder of the dangers present on busy thoroughfares and the importance of caution for both motorists and pedestrians alike.
