Crime & Safety

Driver Who Nearly Drove MBTA Bus Off Overpass Lied About Cell Phone, Report Says

Shanna Shaw and seven passengers on her MBTA bus were hurt in a crash in Newton on Sunday.

A MBTA bus driver who nearly drove off an overpass in Newton Sunday—injuring eight people—allegedly lied to authorities about having a cell phone with her at the time of the crash.

Shanna Shaw was charged with speeding, operating to endanger, impeded operation, and obstruction of justice, Boston.com reported.

The crash happened Sunday morning on an overpass spanning the Massachusetts Turnpike. The bus slammed through a guardrail and the front end was hanging off the overpass.

Eight people—including the driver—were hurt. None of the injuries were considered serious.

The MBTA has a policy that prohibits drivers from using cell phones.

Court documents showed Shaw told investigators she had a cell phone in her hand at the time of the crash, Boston.com reported. She had previously told them she didn't have a phone, according to the documents.

Shaw blamed the crash on a "sneezing attack," according to Boston.com.


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