Bucks County DA announces investigation into transport nonprofit after fatal bus incidents

DOYLESTOWN, Pa. (WPVI) -- The Bucks County District Attorney announced a separate independent investigation into Bucks County Transport, the nonprofit organization that provides transportation services for residents, including seniors and people with disabilities.

Investigators say Ronald Davenport was walking in the parking lot of Grundy Hall, the county-owned senior home where he and his wife lived, when a Bucks County Transport bus struck and ran over him on the night of Aug. 12.

According to District Attorney Joe Khan, the driver, 69-year-old Blair Vanacore, got off the bus and approached the seriously injured Davenport, who reportedly muttered, "call 911."

Khan said Vanacore "told the dispatcher that someone had fallen in the parking lot, gathered the victim's belongings and placed them next to him. Did not render aid, did not wait for police and left the scene."

Authorities said police quickly identified Vanacore through his 911 call, and he later returned to the scene. Khan said Vanacore gave investigators an interview and provided a blood sample that showed no drugs or alcohol in his system. However, investigators have not determined why he did not see Davenport.

Khan said Vanacore told investigators that "he'd run over a shoe."

He also allegedly stated the reason he left was that "he believed he'd get in trouble with the company if he didn't return the bus to the depot that evening," Khan said.

Khan said Davenport is one of two seniors who have been struck and killed by Bucks County Transport buses in recent months.

"They are enjoined by tragedy," Khan said.

Last week, a Bucks County Transport bus struck and killed 67-year-old Katie Semisch in the parking lot of the Bucks County Free Library. Khan said that the investigation remains ongoing, as does a separate review examining the policies and procedures used by Bucks County Transport.

In a statement, the nonprofit said it is committed to providing safe and dependable transportation services, adding, "As part of that commitment, BCT is reviewing safety policies and procedures to identify opportunities to further strengthen its operations."

Khan said, "Somebody ought to be asking those questions, and we are going to be doing that work."

Vanacore is expected to turn himself in Tuesday to face charges including accidents involving death or injury and careless driving. Attempts to reach him for comment were unsuccessful.