Newport Bus Crash Driver Faces Tough Recovery After Tragic Collision
Steve Pitman Battles Serious Injuries After Deadly Crash
The bus driver caught up in the fatal Newport bus crash is facing a painful, long road to recovery. Steve Pitman, from Freshwater, remains hospitalised with damaged vertebrae after the collision that killed mum of four, Yvonne Copeland.
Emergency crews had to cut Steve free from his bus after he swerved to avoid a silver Mini Cooper that ignored a stop sign at Whitehouse Road junction. Despite his injuries, Steve is expected to undergo further scans to determine the full extent of the damage.
Friends Rally Around Steve, Praise His Professionalism
Friends and colleagues have described Steve as a consummate professional with over 13 years at Southern Vectis. “He’s not a risk-taker, he’s a people’s person who would do anything for anyone,” said a family friend.
Shock still ripples through the depot, with staff struggling to come to terms with the tragedy. “It’s really hard to comprehend that a life has been taken,” the friend added.
Supportive Network Stands By Steve’s Side
Since the crash, Steve’s partner Michelle Moon and close friends have stayed by his bedside, helping where they can. “We just have to take things slowly now,” said the family friend. “We’ll know more after Steve’s MRI scan.”
Regular passengers have been asking after Steve, though the family is asking for privacy so police can complete their investigation.
Southern Vectis Offers Condolences and Cooperation
Richard Tyldsley, General Manager of Southern Vectis, expressed deep sorrow over the incident. “This is very distressing for all concerned. We offer our sincere condolences to the family and friends of those affected,” he said.
Southern Vectis is fully cooperating with police investigations and conducting its own internal review into the crash.
