A Torrance Transit bus driver was found guilty of misdemeanor vehicular manslaughter for the 2012 death of a pedestrian in Long Beach. 

52-year-old Sevell Benson was driving his bus southbound on Pacific Ave. on July 6 when he struck and killed 87-year old David Miao. Miao, a Long Beach resident, was crossing in a crosswalk with his wife when he was struck. 

According to the City Prosecutor’s office, evidence presented at trial showed that Benson saw the victim at the crosswalk from over 200 feet away and slowed the bus, but did not stop or yield to the pedestrian.

“Mr. Miao’s death was a senseless tragedy,” said City Prosecutor Doug Haubert. “Vehicular manslaughter cases involving professional drivers are rare, but we are pleased that the defendant will be held accountable.”  

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