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911 calls released depicting JTA bus vs. train accident

"We just got hit, we're on a city bus, a JTA bus," the first caller said. "We got hit by a train..."

First Coast News obtained the 911 calls depicting the moments after a JTA bus collided with an Amtrak train earlier this week.

The calls were made from two riders on the JTA bus.

"We just got hit, we're on a city bus, a JTA bus," the first caller said. "We got hit by a train..."

On Monday, July 1, an Amtrak train crashed into a JTA bus that was crossing the intersection of Post Street and McDuff Avenue around 6:39 a.m.

READ MORE >> No injuries reported after JTA bus, Amtrak train collide

JTA said the driver, identified as Carolyn Simmons, approached the tracks before the arm came down and signals began to flash. A passenger at the scene told First Coast News that they told Simmons to “back up” several times before the collision.

"We had something, they sent rescue earlier where the train hit the bus and they took the driver," the second caller said. "But now, two passengers are claiming injuries, so we need rescue back at Post Avenue at McDuff. Where the train hit the bus."

Nine passengers were on board at the time of the crash, but JTA said there were no injuries.

First Coast News obtained her driving history dating back to 1999. In the 86-page file it was filled with complaints, commendations and warnings.

Simmons’ file also shows awards for safety and preventing at least seven wrecks. Our attempts to contact Simmons in person and online were unsuccessful.

Due to the accident, she was placed on a "hold off" status, according to her employer.

READ MORE >> JTA bus driver involved in a wreck with train had history of accidents on file

 

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