UPDATE: A bus driver has avoided jail time following a tragic accident that resulted in the death of 18-year-old Tia Angel Cameron in Brisbane’s Central Business District. Lindsay Francis Selby, 70, received a suspended sentence after being found guilty of careless driving during the rush hour incident on March 8, 2024.
Just after 5 PM, Ms. Cameron was struck by Selby’s city council bus, leading to devastating consequences for her family. Outside the Brisbane Magistrates Court, her father, Alastair Cameron, raised his hands in apparent relief as the verdict was announced. In a heart-wrenching statement, Ms. Cameron’s mother, Jade Te Awhitu, expressed her profound grief, stating her “world is now darker and smaller and so much lonelier.”
Authorities confirm that Selby was convicted for failing to exercise due care when he turned the bus and collided with both the building and Ms. Cameron. The court heard that Selby was traveling at 23 km/h when he swerved onto the footpath, hitting multiple pedestrians. Magistrate Aaron Simpson emphasized the impact of the tragedy on Ms. Cameron’s family, stating, “Whatever I do in sentencing, it won’t change that outcome.”
Selby’s defense attorney argued for leniency, highlighting that his client has been deeply affected by the incident and submitted a letter of remorse. However, the prosecution noted that Selby’s position as a professional driver heightened his responsibility to ensure pedestrian safety. After considering all factors, including Selby’s health issues, the magistrate sentenced him to eight months in prison, wholly suspended, and disqualified him from driving for a year.
In a shocking moment during the trial, Selby claimed he had steered toward the building to avoid a collision with oncoming traffic, stating, “Unfortunately there was somebody in the way that I didn’t see.” The court showcased CCTV footage that contradicted his account, revealing his failure to brake before the crash.
The maximum penalty for careless driving causing death is 12 months imprisonment or a fine of $13,300. Despite the ruling, the emotional toll on Ms. Cameron’s family is immeasurable. Alastair Cameron lamented the loss of his daughter’s future, stating that he feels the need to “start [his] life all over again.”
As the community grapples with the impact of this tragedy, discussions around pedestrian safety and accountability for professional drivers are expected to intensify. The case serves as a somber reminder of the responsibilities that come with operating heavy vehicles in busy urban areas.
Next Steps: Authorities are likely to review safety protocols for bus drivers in Brisbane, aiming to prevent future tragedies. The public is urged to engage in conversations about road safety and advocate for stricter regulations to protect vulnerable road users.
