School bus driver charged in death of pedestrian in Pottstown

POTTSTOWN, Pa. - October 25, 2013

On the morning of September 9, 2013, police say Shirley Wilhelm was crossing Mervine Street at the intersection of Charlotte Street in Pottstown. At the same time, 64-year-old Donna Engler was behind the wheel of a school bus and attempted to make a turn at that intersection.

While turning, the bus allegedly struck and ran over Wilhelm. She was pronounced dead at the scene.

Investigators determined that there were no obstructions to the Engler seeing Wilhelm crossing the street. Based upon those findings, Engler was charged with Involuntary Manslaughter and Careless Driving.

Engler turned herself in to authorities on Friday and was arraigned. Bail was set at $25,000 before she was released on her own recognizance under the condition that she not drive a school bus. She also waived her preliminary hearing, so the case will be sent to the Court of Common Pleas for disposition.

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