Weslaco, TX — September 11, 2024, Feliberto Romero Ramirez was killed following a pedestrian versus bus accident shortly after 6:45 a.m. along F.M. 493.

According to authorities, 72-year-old Feliberto Ramirez was on foot heading east on Hernandez Road in the vicinity of the Farm to Market 493 intersection when the accident took place.

The cause of the accident remains unclear. Officials indicate that, for as yet unknown reasons, Ramirez was struck by a school bus. He suffered reportedly fatal injuries as a result of the collision. No other injuries have been reported. Additional details pertaining to this incident are not available at this point in time. The investigation is currently ongoing.

Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman

When accidents like this happen, it's easy for people to assume they stem from a momentary lapse in judgment or bad timing. However, based on my experience, incidents involving pedestrians and large vehicles like buses often involve multiple factors that require thorough investigation. This collision in Weslaco is no exception.

There are several key questions investigators will need to answer to determine what led to this incident. Did the bus driver fail to see the pedestrian, or was the visibility poor at the time? School buses have large blind spots, and if the driver wasn’t fully aware of their surroundings, it could have contributed to the collision. Additionally, investigators should examine whether the bus was following appropriate safety protocols, such as adhering to speed limits or signaling properly.

If the bus was part of a school district fleet or operated under a private company, it’s also important to look into whether the driver was properly trained and whether the vehicle was well-maintained. School buses, in particular, carry a high duty of care, and any lapses in training, supervision, or vehicle upkeep could mean the company or school district shares responsibility for the incident.

Ultimately, the goal is to uncover the truth and provide answers to those affected by the accident. Even if it requires conducting an independent investigation to gather vital evidence, it is crucial to consider every factor to ensure that those impacted by the crash receive the clarity and closure they deserve.