UPDATE
May 7, 2012
Lakeland Police Investigators have concluded the investigation into the fatal bus crash involving Katlyn Rickman on January 17, 2012. The investigation revealed that Virginia Harris Robinson was at fault in this fatal crash and was issued a uniform traffic citation for a pedestrian involved traffic violation. The report also states there was no criminal intent.
*****ORIGINAL RELEASE*****
On Tuesday, January 17, 2012 at 3:06 p.m., a pedestrian, later identified as Katlyn Rickman, 13, was crossing West Beacon Road southbound from Camphor Drive. A Polk County District School Bus was reportedly stopped on Eden Parkway at the intersection of West Beacon Road. The school bus initiated a left turn and upon doing so, struck the pedestrian. The pedestrian was airlifted to Tampa General Hospital, with life-threatening injuries. The pedestrian succumbed to her injuries and was pronounced dead at 4:37 p.m.
School district officials identified the driver of the bus as Virginia Robinson, 43. Robinson is a substitute driver who has been with the school district since August 2011. The district will have counselors available to help the students and the bus driver in the coming days.
Members of the traffic homicide unit responded to conduct the investigation. The family and all involved parties have been notified.
This case is still open and follow-up investigation will be completed.
-posted by Ann Dinges, PIO
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