Judge tosses charges against Amtrak driver in 2015 Philadelphia crash

[Eugene]

Source: Reuters

(Reuters) - A Pennsylvania judge on Tuesday dismissed criminal charges against the driver of the Amtrak train that crashed in Philadelphia in 2015, killing eight passengers and injuring 200 others.

Brandon Bostian, 34, had been facing charges including involuntary manslaughter and reckless endangerment.

Common Pleas Court Judge Thomas Gehret in Philadelphia threw out the case after a four-hour preliminary hearing, citing a lack of evidence that the crash was the result of criminal action rather than an accident.

The state attorney general’s office, which had brought the case, could still seek to refile charges against Bostian.

-snip-

#U.S. SEPTEMBER 12, 2017 / 5:11 PM / UPDATED 2 HOURS AGO
Joseph Ax
2 MIN READ


Read more: http://www.reuters.com/article/us-usa-train-derailment/judge-tosses-charges-against-amtrak-driver-in-2015-philadelphia-crash-idUSKCN1BN2VJ

[WhiskeyGrinder]

1. Good. K&R.

[mahatmakanejeeves]

2. Charges agains Bostian(engineer in Philly Amtrak wreck) DISMISSED

Passenger Trains > Charges agains Bostian(engineer in Philly Amtrak wreck) DISMISSED

Date: 09/12/17 12:38
Charges agains Bostian(engineer in Philly Amtrak wreck) DISMISSED
Author: GenePoon

Charges dropped against Amtrak engineer in 2015 derailment
Philadelphia Inquirer
by Jason Laughlin, Staff Writer

A judge has dismissed all charges against Amtrak engineer Brandon Bostian, who was driving the train that derailed in 2015, killing eight people and injuring 150.

At a preliminary hearing Tuesday, Common Pleas Judge Thomas Gehret ruled there was no evidence of a crime.

“It’s a horrible tragedy, but the law recognized there’s a big difference between an accident and a crime,” said Bostian’s attorney Brian McMonagle.

http://www.philly.com/philly/news/charges-dropped-against-amtrak-engineer-in-fatal-derailment-20170912.html

[orangecrush]

3. Good

I read the story of this tragic accident.

Took my first ever trip on Amtrack last Tuesday, Lake Shore Limited to NYC.

I looked up the history of Amtrack safety before buying my ticket.

This young engineer devoted his life to his calling.

Amtrack hopefully has changed their policy regarding rest time between runs, and track security to keep rock throwers away from the trains.

For me, the 12 hour ride from Pa. to NYC was an enjoyable part of the recreational trip itself

Gorgeous scenery, that I could actually enjoy without the stress of driving, all along the Mohawk and Hudson rivers. Much more leg room and bigger seats than airline or bus, and cost less than either when booked in advance.

There is romance in travelling by train.

Trump tried to kill Amtrack, and got his ass handed to him.

I read the news on D.U. on the return trip Wednesday night, aboard the train.

https://www.businesstraveller.com/business-travel/2017/09/12/bid-cut-1-1-billion-amtrak-funding-defeated/