The Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office has confirmed the decease of a pedestrian who was struck by a school bus in Hackensack on Tuesday morning.
Authorities identified the victim as 31-year-old Tima Asp of Lodi. Officials said Asp was walking in a marked crosswalk at the intersection of South Summit Avenue and West Pleasantview Avenue when she was hit by the bus around 8:27 a.m. on March 10. The bus was making a left-hand turn from West Pleasantview Avenue onto South Summit Avenue at the time of the collision.
Asp was transported to a local hospital in critical condition and was later pronounced dead. Officials said the bus driver, who was operating a vehicle owned by J&W Financial LLC, remained at the scene. No criminal charges are expected to be filed, and authorities stated there is no indication that the accident involved criminal activity.
The Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office Fatal Accident Investigation Unit and Hackensack Police Department are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the collision. Additional law enforcement agencies, including the Lodi Police Department, Hasbrouck Heights Police Department, and Bergen County Sheriff’s Office, assisted at the scene.
This tragic incident highlights the importance of pedestrian safety and the need for vigilance on busy streets, especially in areas with crosswalks and frequent vehicle traffic. Authorities urge both drivers and pedestrians to exercise caution, follow traffic signals, and remain aware of their surroundings to prevent accidents.
Safety measures, such as obeying posted speed limits, ensuring clear visibility when turning, and using designated crosswalks, can significantly reduce the risk of accidents. Community education, well-marked pedestrian areas, and public awareness campaigns also play a vital role in keeping residents safe.
The Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office and local police emphasize that investigations like this help inform safety strategies and prevent future tragedies. Residents are encouraged to stay alert, report unsafe conditions, and support efforts to improve traffic and pedestrian safety in their neighborhoods.
How can communities and drivers work together to reduce pedestrian accidents and ensure safer streets for everyone? Share your thoughts and ideas to raise awareness about pedestrian safety in Hackensack and beyond.
