“A terrible accident.” Mayor of Mamaroneck believes charges after fatal bus accident are unlikely

The mayor of the village of Mamaroneck spoke to News 12 about this week’s accident that killed a six-year-old and his mother.

Sharon Torres, who has been mayor for just a few months, said she was saddened by the deaths of Molly Murphy Donovan and her son Michael, who were hit by a school bus on their way to school on Thursday.

“The news was devastating,” said Torres. “Yesterday morning I received calls, texts and emails. Of course, you never want to hear about deaths. And especially not a double death.”

According to investigators, the accident occurred at the corner of Mamaroneck Avenue and New Street. They said the smaller school bus was turning on a green light when the driver struck the boy and his mother as they were using the crosswalk.

According to police, Michael was pronounced dead at the scene of the accident and Donovan was taken to the hospital for treatment, where she later succumbed to her injuries.

Officials added that the bus was en route to Mamaroneck Avenue School and had children on board who were not injured in the accident.

The event sparked great emotion in the mayor’s exclusive interview with News 12.

“Imagine the grief this family is going through. They lost another family member in a car accident years ago. This is a huge reminder that we need to slow down and pay attention,” Torres said.

Torres also gave an update on the investigation and clarified whether charges will be filed against the driver.

“It doesn’t look like there will be any charges. It just looks like it was a really horrific accident,” Torres said.

The incident has now motivated a group of volunteers from the village’s transportation committee. Ryan Buck, the chairman, said they have come together to demand change.

“We need to slow down, we need more awareness campaigns, we need more crosswalks, we need smarter crosswalks,” Buck said.

Buck said he supports the changes, but stressed that he needs the county’s help to implement them.

“Mamaroneck Avenue is a county road,” Buck said. “We see that changes need to be made, and we really need the county to make our roads safer for our children.”

Meanwhile, the mayor said a candlelight vigil is planned for Sunday evening to remember those who died. She said it will take place at the Poetry Garden near the police station.