UPDATE: A Brisbane City Council bus driver has been found guilty of driving without due care and attention in the tragic death of 18-year-old Tia Cameron. The verdict was delivered today in the Brisbane Magistrates Court, marking a pivotal moment in a case that has captured public attention.
On March 8, 2024, Cameron was standing outside the Anzac Square Arcade on Edward Street after leaving a lash appointment when she was struck by a bus driven by Lindsay Francis Selby. The devastating incident occurred during peak-hour traffic, with witnesses describing a chaotic scene as the bus pinned Cameron against the wall.
Selby, an experienced driver, was just two hours into his shift when the accident occurred. He claimed he swerved onto the busy footpath to avoid stationary cars, stating in court that his bus would not slow down. The court heard that Selby had turned left from Ann Street into Edward Street, accelerating to more than 20 km/h as he mounted the footpath.
In a shocking moment, Selby told police from the back of an ambulance that he believed he was applying the brakes, but the bus failed to respond. His defense attorney, Saul Holt KC, argued that Selby likely thought he was braking, suggesting that his foot may have become stuck or slipped during the maneuver.
However, the prosecution produced video evidence showing that Selby had sufficient time to stop the bus before the collision and that his actions fell below the standard expected of a prudent driver. Magistrate Aaron Simpson confirmed that the evidence of negligence was clear, leading to Selby’s conviction.
This case has raised serious concerns about road safety in the city, particularly regarding the conduct of public transport drivers. The emotional toll on Cameron’s family and friends has been profound, as they continue to mourn the loss of a young life taken too soon.
As the community grapples with this tragedy, more details about the sentencing and potential repercussions for Selby are expected in the coming days. Authorities urge drivers to remain vigilant and prioritize safety, especially in busy urban areas.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as the impact of this verdict continues to unfold.
