SEPTA Bus Strikes Couple in South Philadelphia, Killing Husband

A tragic accident occurred in South Philadelphia on Friday evening when a SEPTA bus struck a couple crossing the street, resulting in the death of the husband. The incident took place at approximately 7 p.m. at the intersection of Washington Avenue and South Front Street.

Michael Spooner, 35, was pronounced dead at the scene after being struck by the bus. His 29-year-old wife was transported to Temple University Hospital, where she is listed in stable condition. According to Lt. Brown of the Philadelphia Police Department Crash Investigation Division, the couple was crossing northbound on Washington Avenue when the SEPTA bus, making a turn off Front Street westbound, hit them just as they were nearing the sidewalk.

A Philadelphia Police officer attempted life-saving measures on Spooner, but the efforts were unsuccessful. The bus driver, a 50-year-old male, remained at the scene following the crash. Both SEPTA and the Philadelphia Police Department have launched investigations into the incident.

SEPTA released a statement expressing condolences: “Our hearts go out to everyone who is impacted by this tragic incident. SEPTA is committed to fully assisting Philadelphia Police in the accident investigation. SEPTA’s System Safety Division is also conducting its own examination of the incident.”

Surveillance footage from the scene shows the bus traveling northbound on Front Street before turning left onto Washington Avenue. The crash caused both directions of Washington Avenue to be temporarily shut down as authorities investigated. A winter hat and earmuffs belonging to the victim were still visible on the ground Friday night, with crime scene tape blocking off the area.

This is a developing story, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.