Driver’s Language Barrier Highlighted After Fatal Virginia Bus Crash

Authorities revealed that the driver of a bus involved in a fatal crash in Virginia, which resulted in the deaths of five people, does not speak English. U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy criticized this, labeling it ‘unacceptable.’

The tragic incident occurred on Interstate 95 in Stafford County when an E&P Travel bus traveling from New York to North Carolina failed to decelerate near a work zone. The bus collided with several vehicles, leading to the rollover and casualties. The Virginia State Police reported that the crash took place at approximately 2:35 a.m. on Friday.

The crash claimed the lives of a 13-year-old girl, a 7-year-old boy, a 45-year-old man, and a 44-year-old woman, all from Massachusetts. Their car caught fire following the collision. Additionally, a 25-year-old woman in a nearby vehicle also died. The Virginia State Police confirmed the deaths of these individuals and noted that at least 44 others were hospitalized, including three in critical condition.

The bus driver, Jing S. Dong, 48, from Staten Island, New York, sustained injuries in the crash. Police indicated that charges are pending against Dong. Originally from China, Dong is a naturalized citizen who obtained a commercial driver’s license in New York two years ago.

‘This is exactly why we are holding states accountable, enforcing the rules of the road, and cracking down on drivers who can’t speak English,’ Duffy stated on X. ‘If you can’t be properly trained, read our road signs, or communicate with law enforcement, you have no business driving a bus.’

Duffy announced an investigation into New York’s licensing records, training documentation, and the driver’s history. He emphasized that any company, trainer, or school responsible for allowing an unqualified driver on the road would face intense scrutiny.

Federal regulations require commercial drivers to have sufficient English proficiency to perform their duties safely.

In February, Duffy mandated that all truckers and bus drivers undergo English-only testing to obtain their licenses. This measure aims to ensure that all drivers understand road signs and can effectively communicate in emergencies.