Woman hit by CapMetro bus dies

AUSTIN (KXAN) - The woman who was hit by a Capital Metro bus last week and became trapped under the vehicle has died, Austin police said Wednesday.

Amanda Louise Dewey, 53, died Tuesday from the injuries she suffered in the crash that happened around 6:40 p.m. on Jan. 30 while she was trying to cross an intersection at Braker and Jollyville Road in Northwest Austin.

Dewey lived in Cedar Park, but worked at a consulting business in downtown Austin called Quantum Intellectual Property Services, which is based in Washington D.C.

In a statement released Wednesday, her employer said, ""We are saddened by this news. Amanda was a much loved and valuable team member who will be dearly missed."

The video released by CapMetro shows the driver making a turn onto Jollyville Road, the windshield muddled with rain droplets, and then the bus makes a stop and  passengers scramble out of the bus to help the woman and help re-direct traffic.

A preliminary investigation showed that the bus was westbound on Braker Lane and turned left to go south on Jollyville Road. Dewey was walking west, crossing Jollyville Road in the crosswalk. The bus struck her during the turn. Both the vehicle and pedestrian had a green light, but the pedestrian had the right of way, according to investigators.

Several witnesses saw the accident take place.

"I saw her get rolled over by the bus." said DeAunderia Bowens. "I was completely shocked. It was just a horrible thing to see."

"I just couldn't believe, she didn't even have enough room to move her head," said Keith Loerch.

The bus driver was placed on administrative leave with pay while an internal investigation is done.

"Capital Metro and its contractor Veolia Transportation were deeply saddened to learn about the death of Amanda Louise Dewey," the transit company said.

"This is the first pedestrian fatality involving a Capital Metro bus in the history of the agency. The safety of our community is a top priority for Capital Metro and all of its contractors with drivers going through a comprehensive and ongoing safety training program."

Police ask anyone with information to call 512-974-8164.