Mar 11 • 04:09 UTC 🇦🇺 Australia ABC News AU

Bus company linked to fatal wedding crash admits to heavy vehicle breaches

Linq Buslines and its directors have pleaded guilty to safety breaches related to a bus crash in the Hunter Valley that killed 10 people.

Linq Buslines, along with its directors Christopher Fogg and Anthony Royle, have admitted to violating heavy vehicle safety laws following a tragic bus crash in the Hunter Valley, New South Wales, that resulted in the deaths of 10 individuals. This incident occurred in June 2023 when driver Brett Andrew Button crashed the bus transporting wedding guests, stemming from impaired driving due to a high concentration of the opioid Tramadol in his system.

In the aftermath, Brett Andrew Button was sentenced to 32 years in prison, with a non-parole period of 24 years, highlighting the severe legal implications of the crash. The courts found that the level of drugs in his system significantly impacted his ability to operate the vehicle safely, directly contributing to the deadly accident. Following this, both the bus company and its directors are now facing legal consequences for their roles in ensuring vehicle safety standards were upheld.

As the company and directors await sentencing in August, this case raises critical questions about compliance with safety regulations in the transport industry, particularly in the context of passenger safety during large events like weddings. The outcomes not only aim to address the breaches but also serve as a warning to similar operators on the importance of adhering to heavy vehicle laws to prevent further tragedies.

📡 Similar Coverage