GREEN BAY, Wis. (WLUK) — The driver of a coach bus that crashed in Green Bay on March 22 told police his brakes failed as he exited an on-ramp.
Ghebry Figueroa, 37, of Prospect Heights, Illinois, faces charges of knowingly operating a motor vehicle while revoked and operating while disqualified. Authorities said he was behind the wheel of the bus carrying 54 passengers when it veered off Interstate Highway 43 and came to a stop amid warehouses.
According to police, the crash resulted in 41 reported injuries, with 36 individuals requiring treatment at local hospitals. Injuries varied from minor bumps to serious conditions, including a spine fracture and broken bones. Most victims were described as elderly.
Figueroa appeared virtually in Brown County Court and was set a $5,000 cash bond. He posted bail hours later, with conditions prohibiting him from driving without a valid license. Court records reveal he has a history of driving-related offenses and probation in Illinois for previous convictions.
The bus was en route from Chicago to the Island Resort and Casino in Michigan's Upper Peninsula when the incident occurred. Witnesses reported that Figueroa attempted to pump the brakes before losing control.
Mass casualty protocols were activated at local hospitals to manage the influx of patients, which were executed effectively, according to hospital officials.
Figueroa is scheduled to return to court on April 1 for a preliminary hearing.