Bus Driver Held in Fatal Accident Near NBC Tower

A 26-year-old woman was struck Tuesday while crossing the street

The tour bus driver who struck and killed a woman Tuesday evening near NBC Tower was in custody Wednesday morning but has not been charged, Chicago police said.

Just before 7 p.m. Tuesday, Justyna Palka, 26, was crossing North Columbus Drive when she was struck by the bus, making a right turn from East Illinois Street to head south on Columbus.

A witness said the woman had the right-of-way when she was struck.

"He run over the lady. He did it with the first wheel and then the second wheel," said witness Zachary Pernikliyski. "It was awful."

Passersby and first-responders came to Palka's aid and performed CPR. Her bags, shoes and sunglasses were strewn about the street.

The woman was taken in critical condition to Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Fire Media Affairs spokesman Joe Roccasalva said.

She later died, according to Chicago Police Officer Veejay Zala.  The driver of the bus was clearly shaken and was put in a Chicago police SUV.
 

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