Bus Driver Charged In Crash That Killed Grosse Pointe Park Woman

DETROIT — A Detroit bus driver is facing charges after she fatally struck a Grosse Pointe Park woman in downtown earlier this month, according to the Wayne County Prosecutor's Office.

Janice Bauer, 67, was fatally struck by a Detroit Department of Transportation bus at 7:30 a.m. June 2 at the intersection of Congress and Griswold streets.

Prosecutors said Bauer was crossing the intersection on a green light using a walker as the bus turned left onto Griswold Street and hit her.

Geraldine Johnson, 59, was charged with one count of moving violation causing death. If convicted of the misdemeanor charge, she faces up to a year in jail or a fine of up to $2,000 or both. Her next court date was scheduled for June 16.

"This case is tragic on every level. Janice Bauer lost her life," Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy said. "The alleged facts are that defendant, Geraldine Johnson, literally ran her over with the city bus she was driving and caused her death."

City officials said the driver of the bus was removed and will not be allowed to drive a bus until an internal investigation is completed.

Officials are also looking into the incident to review the city’s practices and determine if any steps should be taken to prevent tragedies in the future.