Bus driver charged over Napier pedestrian crash that killed mum walking to work
A bus driver involved in a fatal crash that killed a pedestrian in the Napier CBD has been charged.
A 72-year-old man, who was driving a GoBay public bus during the crash on the morning of April 17, is facing a charge of careless or inconsiderate vehicle operation causing death.
Napier mum Olawande Braimoh, 36, was hit by the bus on Tennyson St while walking to work, at a crossing controlled by lights.
She died at the scene despite the best efforts of first responders.
There were passengers on the bus but no one else was injured.
Braimoh was remembered in the aftermath of the crash as an “amazing person” and “a joy” to be around. She was heavily involved with Napier Baptist Church and the African community in Hawke’s Bay after moving to the region from Nigeria in 2023 with her husband and son.
She was pregnant at the time of the crash and had started a new job at the Ministry of Social Development, which has offices next to the crash site.
GoBus operates the GoBay bus service in Hawke’s Bay.
GoBus chief operating officer Ben Barlow said, following the driver being charged, that “our thoughts remain with the family and loved ones of the person who died”.
“As the matter is now before the courts, we are unable to comment further.”
The driver, who has interim name suppression, appeared in court on the charge last week.
No pleas were entered and his next court date is later in July.