Bus Driver Resigns After Fatal Accident Involving Young Child

Community members reflect on the tragic incident involving a school bus and a young child.

News Summary

Jean Charles, the bus driver involved in the tragic accident that led to the death of 5-year-old Lens Joseph, has resigned ahead of a termination hearing. The accident occurred when Lens was struck by the bus shortly after being let off from school. Reports indicate that Charles was driving an unfamiliar route as a substitute driver and had failed to renew his state-required certification. Following the incident, Boston Mayor Michelle Wu announced an audit of driver certification compliance as concerns rise over student transportation safety.

Boston — Jean Charles, the bus driver responsible for a tragic accident that resulted in the death of 5-year-old Lens Joseph, has resigned just before a scheduled termination hearing. This hearing was set to address his employment with Transdev, the bus company contracted by Boston Public Schools (BPS). Charles had only been a driver with BPS for two years and had failed to renew his state-required certification before the incident.

The fatal accident occurred on April 28, when Lens was struck by the bus shortly after being let off from school. He was with his 11-year-old cousin at the time, trying to cross the street to get home when they were involved in the accident near 107 Washington Street at approximately 2:45 PM. Lens was quickly transported to Boston Children’s Hospital but succumbed to his injuries shortly after arrival.

In response to the incident, Charles was placed on administrative leave while Transdev conducted an investigation that culminated in the hearing on Wednesday. Reports indicate that Charles had been operating an unfamiliar route as a substitute driver due to an early dismissal from UP Academy on the day of the crash. Furthermore, it has been reported that earlier in the day, the bus Charles drove had previously struck two parked cars in Mattapan. However, this information has not been officially confirmed.

Following the accident, Charles underwent drug and alcohol testing, and no signs of impairment were detected. Witnesses have raised concerns about his state during and after the incident, describing him as making “unclear statements” which further fueled doubts regarding his comprehension of the situation.

Lens Joseph’s family expressed their devastation over the loss, questioning why a substitute driver was used in place of Lens’ regular driver and why appropriate procedures were not followed. In the aftermath of this devastating incident, Boston Mayor Michelle Wu announced an audit of driver certification compliance in order to enhance the safety protocols surrounding student transportation.

BPS has committed to collaborating with Transdev to reinforce the training and licensing standards for their bus drivers in light of the tragedy. Superintendent Mary Skipper emphasized the need for the community to come together during this profoundly emotional time, acknowledging the loss not only of Lens Joseph but also recognizing another student, 14-year-old Marvin, who was mentioned by school officials but whose circumstances were not detailed.

The attorneys representing Lens’ family stated that the incident “could have been, and should have been, completely avoided.” They are advocating for justice and policy changes that would prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future. Additionally, school committee leaders and council members have called for increased transparency and swift communication regarding safety measures and driver certification policies to protect students.

As investigations continue and the community processes this tragic loss, there is a collective call for reflection on safety measures that could enhance the protection of young students while in transit, ensuring that the necessary precautions are taken in the future.