The bus driver, who killed ten wedding guests in the accident north of Sydney, was released on bail on Tuesday after appearing in an Australian court on charges of dangerous or negligent driving likely to result in death.
• Also read: Ten people are killed and many injured in a bus accident in Australia
Brett Andrew Button, 58, appeared in court in Cessnock (southeast) on Tuesday, eyes on the ground and head bowed to Judge Robyn Richardson.
“I see before me a man who is suffering,” said Ms. Richardson, who granted him bail with a ban on approaching witnesses for the prosecution and driving a vehicle.
“I am concerned for Mr. Button’s well-being,” she insisted.
The Australian police accuse the bus driver of driving “too fast” through the foggy night shortly before midnight on Sunday.
The coach was carrying 35 passengers when it overturned on its left at the entrance to a large roundabout. He was returning from an estate in the Hunter wine region (South East) where the wedding had taken place.
Ten people have died and 14 guests remain hospitalized, including one in intensive care.
An initial blood alcohol test returned a negative result, police said, citing “unpredictable” speeding that passengers allegedly complained about before the accident.
“We have obviously charged this 58-year-old bus driver,” acting Deputy Chief of Police David Waddell said, adding that 11 charges had been brought against Mr Button.
“He entered this roundabout in a manner inappropriate to the situation,” the police officer added, after which “the speed (of the coach) was too high to cross the roundabout. Point”.
It is Australia’s deadliest road accident in 16 years. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese offered his condolences to the families of those killed, saying on social media: “It is cruel that a day of joy should end with such a heartbreaking loss.” Our thoughts are also with the injured.”