Newark – Acting Essex County Prosecutor Theodore N. Stephens, II, and Newark Public Safety Director Anthony F. Ambrose announced today that Fayola Howard, 34, of Bloomfield has been arrested and charged with vehicular homicide.
Officials say it is alleged that on Dec. 31, 2019, while operating an NJ Transit bus, Howard struck Kevin Thomas, 55, of Newark.
The preliminary investigation indicates that the victim was dragged by the bus and he subsequently died from his injuries on Jan. 6.
Officials say at the time the bus was travelling southbound on Sanford Ave. approaching Mt. Vernon Place in Newark.
Howard has been charged with vehicular homicide and leaving the scene of the accident involving an injured person.
At the time of her arrest today, she was attempting to board a plane at Newark Airport according to officials.
These are accusations.
All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until they enter a guilty plea or are found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
The investigation is active and ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office Homicide/Major Crimes Task Force tips line at 1-877-847-7432.