The driver of a bus which smashed into a supermarket, killing a pensioner and a young boy, was a 77-year-old man, police have confirmed.
In a statement appealing for witnesses to come forward with video footage of Saturday’s crash, West Midlands Police said the driver, who suffered minor injuries, was helping officers with inquiries.
Stagecoach Midlands had declined to comment on the age of the driver after his double-decker struck the side of a Sainsbury’s supermarket on Trinity Street, Coventry.
A pedestrian aged in her 70s from Nuneaton and a seven-year-old boy from Leamington Spa, who was travelling on the upper deck of the bus, both died at the scene.
The boy’s cousin, an eight-year-old girl, was also injured and remains in a stable condition in hospital.
It is believed the bus, operating a service between Coventry and Leamington, collided with a number of stationary cars, mounted a pavement and struck a lamppost before crashing.
A spokesman for Stagecoach Midlands said: “Our hearts go out to the families of those who have lost their loved ones.
“Our thoughts also remain with all those affected by this tragic incident.
“No driver we employ is allowed behind the wheel of our buses without us being satisfied that they are fully qualified, safe and meet all necessary legal requirements.
“In this case, our driver has many years’ experience and has also passed a mandatory annual medical.
“Both our driver and our company are co-operating fully in helping police determine the full circumstances involved.
“Police have not yet completed their investigation and it is inappropriate to speculate in advance of their inquiries being concluded.”
Police believe hundreds of people may have witnessed the crash and its aftermath and have thanked those who have come forward with information.
Inspector Paul Bennett, from the West Midlands’ collision investigation unit, said: “Investigations are on-going but we are aware of a number of vital witnesses who we are yet to speak to.
“I would urge these people to come forward as soon as possible and give statements. Also if anyone has images or footage of the scenes please contact us.”