Family’s tribute for 18yo killed by bus
The aunt of an 18-year-old woman who died in a tragic Brisbane peak hour crash has shared a heartbreaking tribute.
The teenager, identified as Tia Cameron, had just got her eyelashes done and was walking out of a nearby salon when a bus mounted the kerb and hit her from behind, according to the Courier Mail.
She tragically died on Friday night after the BCC bus pinned her against a wall at the ANZAC Square arcade building on Edward St, despite the best efforts of paramedics.
On Saturday, her aunt, Karma Te Whaiti said her niece had been “tragically stolen”.
“Yesterday our baby Tia Cameron grew her angel wings. Tragically stolen from us in a terrible bus accident in Brisbane city,” she wrote.
“Currently she lays with the coroners and will be released to us Monday. We will update in the coming days regarding Tia’s celebration of life.”
Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner also visited the crash site on Saturday alongside councillor Ryan Murphy, and laid down flowers at the growing memorial.
“What happened in Brisbane last night was a devastating tragedy. It has left our entire community in shock,” Mr Schrinner shared in a post on social media.
“To the family and friends of Tia Cameron who tragically lost her life, and to everyone impacted, the thoughts, prayers and hearts of Brisbane are with you.”
At least nine others were injured in the 5pm crash that sparked chaos and long traffic delays in the city centre.
It’s understood that the bus lost control and crashed into a light pole before mounting the kerb near the intersection of Adelaide Street.
Several passengers on board the bus were treated for soft tissue injuries and three were taken to hospital with minor injuries.
District Duty Officer Senior-Sergeant Steve Watterson told the Courier Mail the crash scene was “horrendous”.
“The bus has made a left turn from Ann into Edward and for reasons under investigation at this point in time to ascertain why it deviated left onto the footpath,” he said.
“All other passengers on the bus were assessed by QAS with three transported to hospital with very minor injuries.”
Queensland Ambulance Service operations supervisor Andrew Blumson described the crash as a confronting situation.
“Our officers are very well-trained, but these sorts of accidents don’t happen every day,” he said.
“We have very robust support services within the QAS and every single officer involved in these sorts of incidents will be followed up with.”
Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said the incident was “truly devastating”.
“My heart goes out to everyone impacted by this tragedy,” he said in a statement.
“Hearing this news has absolutely shocked me and I’m sure the entire Brisbane community will be feeling this tonight.
“None of us going about our daily lives ever expect anything like this.
“While we do not yet know the exact circumstances of what has happened, council will be working with Queensland Police Service who will investigate this heartbreaking incident.”
Premier Steven Miles also posted his condolences on Friday.
“I’m saddened to hear the news that a woman has died after a bus crash in Brisbane CBD this evening,” he said.
“Our thoughts go out to all those involved.”
