Hunter Valley Bus Driver Apologizes for Tragic Wedding Crash, Denies Negligence

Bus driver Brett Andrew Button has publicly addressed the court for the first time regarding the tragic accident that claimed 10 lives and injured 25 others.

P24 News

September 12, 2024

1 minute

Hunter Valley Bus Driver Apologizes for Tragic Wedding Crash, Denies Negligence

Australia

Brett Button Breaks Silence on Fatal Wedding Crash

Bus driver Brett Andrew Button has publicly addressed the court for the first time regarding the tragic accident that claimed 10 lives and injured 25 others. His apology came after the presentation of 40 emotional victim impact statements, as he expressed deep remorse while maintaining that he was not negligent.

Driver Reflects on Devastating Loss

During his hour-long testimony, Button tearfully admitted that he struggles to forgive himself for the crash, saying, "I can’t believe I caused this… I’ve ruined the lives of hundreds." He recounted the immense guilt he feels, stating that he lives with the burden every day and apologizing to the victims and their families.

Admission of Responsibility But Denial of Negligence

Button, who pleaded guilty to charges of dangerous driving, admitted he was going too fast when the bus overturned but denied being negligent. "I wasn’t negligent, and I didn’t do it deliberately," he told the court. He also acknowledged the painkiller tramadol's role in his life but denied that it affected his driving on the day of the crash.

Victims' Families Respond to Driver's Testimony

Family members of the victims, who were present in court, stared solemnly as Button gave his statement. Many survivors, including Jason Junkeer, described the terror they felt during the crash, with Junkeer recalling an overwhelming sensation of impending death as Button sped through the roundabout where the accident occurred.

Courtroom Tensions Rise Over Accountability

Crown prosecutor Katharine Jeffreys questioned whether Button had fully accepted responsibility, pressing him on whether he blamed the poorly designed roundabout for the crash. Button responded, “I blame me,” but pointed out issues with the roundabout’s design, which he said contributed to the accident.

Judge Considers Sentence Amidst Emotional Testimonies

Judge Roy Ellis acknowledged Button’s remorse but emphasized that no sentence would satisfy everyone involved. With Button turning 60 next month, the judge noted that imprisonment would be harsher for someone of his age compared to younger offenders. Judge Ellis is set to deliver the sentencing, taking into account 40 victim impact statements from the families affected.

Tragic Losses Remembered

Among the victims were young couples and friends, including Nadene and Kyah McBride, Andrew and Lynan Scott, and several others from across Australia, leaving behind grieving families who will forever feel the impact of the tragedy.