Two dead after bus reportedly backs over smoking shelter in First Hill parking lot UPDATE

A bus struck a smoking shelter in a First Hill parking lot Tuesday morning, resulting in the deaths of two individuals. The incident occurred shortly after 10:30 AM behind the Hilltop House retirement community, with reports indicating that a 911 caller alerted authorities. A third elderly woman narrowly escaped injury, underscoring the potential dangers of such structures in busy areas. Emergency responders from Seattle Fire attempted life-saving measures, but both victims were pronounced dead at the scene. The Seattle Police Department’s Traffic Collision Investigation Squad is investigating, collecting evidence, and interviewing the driver involved.

This incident raises critical questions about pedestrian safety and the design of public transport facilities in urban environments. With increasing bus traffic in populated neighborhoods, authorities may need to reconsider safety protocols. Such tragic incidents can prompt policy changes aimed at enhancing safety measures for vulnerable populations.