A tragic accident occurred in Baltimore's Mount Vernon neighborhood on Friday afternoon when a garbage truck rolled downhill, resulting in the death of its operator and injuries to two others. The incident unfolded around 3:45 p.m. near the intersection of Cathedral and Centre Streets, close to the Walters Art Museum.
Key Takeaways
- A garbage truck operator, Michael Bost, 41, was killed in the accident.
- The truck struck four vehicles and crashed into a building.
- Two individuals from the struck vehicles were hospitalized with injuries.
- The building was evacuated, and multiple streets were closed for investigation.
Incident Overview
According to police reports, Michael Bost was outside the garbage truck he was operating when it began to roll downhill. The truck struck him before colliding with four parked vehicles and ultimately crashing into the Cozy Corner restaurant on West Centre Street. Emergency services arrived promptly, but Bost was pronounced dead at the scene.
Injuries and Evacuations
Two individuals, a 27-year-old man and woman, were injured in the crash and transported to local hospitals. Fortunately, their injuries were reported as stable. The building that was struck by the garbage truck was evacuated, and no additional injuries were reported from the structure.
Emergency Response
Numerous emergency vehicles responded to the scene, including fire crews and police. The Baltimore City Fire Department confirmed that units were dispatched shortly after the incident was reported. The area was cordoned off for several hours as investigators worked to reconstruct the accident.
Traffic Disruptions
The crash caused significant traffic disruptions in the area, with multiple streets closed to facilitate the investigation. Public transportation routes were also affected, leading to detours for buses that typically operate on Cathedral and Centre Streets. Authorities advised commuters to seek alternative routes until the area was cleared.
Investigation Underway
The Baltimore City Police Department's Accident Reconstruction Unit is conducting a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash. Preliminary reports suggest that the garbage truck, operated by WB Waste Solutions LLC, may have malfunctioned, leading to the tragic events.
Community Impact
This incident has left the Mount Vernon community in shock, as residents and local businesses grapple with the aftermath of the accident. The Cozy Corner restaurant, which was damaged in the crash, has been a staple in the neighborhood, and its future remains uncertain as building inspectors assess the structural integrity of the site.
As the investigation continues, community members are urged to stay informed about road closures and safety measures in place. The loss of Michael Bost has resonated deeply within the community, highlighting the risks faced by those in the waste management industry.
In the wake of this tragedy, support for the victims and their families is paramount, as the community comes together to heal and remember those affected by this unfortunate event.
