A speeding driver lost their life in Milwaukee after colliding with a Milwaukee County Transit System (MCTS) bus, sending five others to the hospital. The fatal incident occurred at approximately 11:52 p.m. on the 3500 block of West Capitol Drive when the driver, heading west, ignored a red light at the intersection with 35th Street, according to a statement from the Milwaukee Police Department.

The car, identified as a Ford, was carrying two passengers and collided with the northbound bus, which held four passengers and the driver. The force of the impact resulted in significant injuries among the occupants of both vehicles.

Authorities confirmed that the bus driver, aged 34, and two bus passengers, ages 31 and 45, were promptly taken to a local hospital for emergency care. Two other bus passengers, both 59, received treatment at the crash site. The driver of the Ford was declared dead at the scene, while the car’s two passengers, aged 28 and 27, were hospitalized.

Further details about the Ford’s driver are withheld pending further investigation.

Denise Wandke, MCTS president and managing director, expressed her dismay over the incident in a heartfelt statement: “This morning’s reckless driving accident, where an automobile crashed into an MCTS bus, was a senseless tragedy for all involved. In my 30 years working in public transit, never have I seen such a horrible accident.”

Wandke continued, praising the bus driver’s heroic actions. “First, I want to praise our bus operator who, despite being injured, grabbed a fire extinguisher and rushed out of the bus to put out the flames from the car. I am truly in awe of their bravery. We grieve the loss of life that occurred as a result of this accident. Our hearts go out to our bus passengers and auto occupants who were hurt. We hope those injured have a full recovery.”

The accident marks the second severe incident on Capitol Drive in a single day, following an earlier crash near the 4200 block where a driver perished after striking a tree and rolling their vehicle.

A 2023 city report highlights Capitol Drive as Milwaukee’s most hazardous roadway. Wandke added, “During the first three months of 2024, reckless driving accidents where cars have hit MCTS buses increased by almost 40 percent. This is inflicting harm among our residents, costing taxpayers money and disrupting peace in our neighborhoods.”