RCMP Superintendent Rob Lawson announced today that no criminal charges will be filed in connection with the catastrophic bus crash near Carberry, Manitoba, last year, which resulted in the deaths of 17 people.
On June 15, 2023, a collision occurred between a semi-trailer truck and a minibus carrying senior citizens, leaving 17 dead and numerous others injured. The incident took place on the Trans-Canada Highway, a major route that stretches across the country.
Following the crash, RCMP investigators conducted numerous interviews, meticulously examined physical evidence from the scene, and analyzed expert reports. Every investigative avenue was explored to compile a comprehensive package for the Crown attorneys.
“We hoped to provide the why of what happened and that is why we do what we do, but in this case, we cannot say why the bus proceeded into the intersection that day when it was unsafe to do so,” said Supt. Lawson during the press briefing.
The Crown prosecutors reviewed the investigative findings and concluded that there was insufficient evidence to support criminal charges. They considered potential charges of negligence and dangerous driving under the Criminal Code but determined that the evidence did not meet the necessary thresholds.
The investigation revealed that the minibus, traveling south, crossed four lanes of traffic, pausing in the median before attempting to cross the eastbound lanes, where it was struck by the semi-trailer. A critical factor identified was the presence of blind spots in the minibus, which likely prevented the driver from seeing the oncoming truck.
“The presence of a blind spot does not constitute dangerous driving,” explained Supt. Lawson. “Momentary inattention or the existence of a blind spot does not meet the criteria for criminal negligence or dangerous driving.”
The minibus driver, who survived the crash but sustained traumatic brain injuries, remains in assisted living and does not recall the incident. This lack of recollection, coupled with the severity of his injuries, further complicated the investigation.
The decision not to pursue criminal charges has elicited mixed reactions from the community and the families of the victims. RCMP and Crown officials visited Dauphin, Manitoba, to explain their decision to the affected families. While some found solace in the detailed explanation, others expressed dissatisfaction with the outcome.
Earlier this month, a memorial was dedicated to the victims in Dauphin, and the province announced plans to redesign the intersection to prevent future accidents. The Manitoba government has allocated $12 million for these safety improvements.
While today’s announcement may not bring the closure many had hoped for, it marks the end of a lengthy and exhaustive investigation. The focus now shifts to ensuring such a tragedy does not occur again. The planned redesign of the intersection is a critical step in this direction, aimed at enhancing road safety for all users.
The Carberry bus crash remains a somber reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of road safety. As the community moves forward, the lessons learned from this tragedy will guide efforts to prevent future incidents and honor the memory of those who perished.