Investigators said no mechanical defects were found in the buses involved in Tuesday's deadly crash.
Police and NTSB investigators held a news conference Friday afternoon giving several key updates in the investigation, which is expected to continue in the next few weeks.
A new MTA bus victim has been identified, raising the tally to 17 people involved. Police said the 29-year-old woman is currently in stable condition at Shock Trauma. The last victim undergoing treatment, a 28-year-old man, is listed in critical condition.
Investigators believe the driver of the Mustang turned onto Frederick Ave from S. Loudon Avenue and was hit from behind by the school bus. The bus then continued down Frederick Avenue before colliding with the MTA bus. Police said the school bus didn't hit a pillar at the Loudon Park Cemetery as previously indicated. The pillar was damaged prior to the crash.
.@TJSmithMedia explaining where school bus collided w/Mustang&MTA bus.No info on cause of crash.NTSB prelim report expected 2-3wks @ABC2NEWS pic.twitter.com/fSP8ai7TtX
— Mallory Sofastaii (@MalloryABC2) November 4, 2016
Police identified the sixth MTA bus victim, 46-year-old Pattie Lynn Martinez who was believed to be homeless. Her family was located immediately following the press conference.
UPDATE: Citizen called in and next of kin has been identified. Thank you all. https://t.co/l0qUEeRaBy
— Baltimore Police (@BaltimorePolice) November 4, 2016
Surveillance video obtained by police is being reviewed, and officials haven't yet determined whether the school bus driver was authorized to operate the vehicle.
A preliminary report will be released within the next 2-3 weeks, according to the NTSB. Determining probable cause will take additional time.
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