TMP Reports
Posted: Wednesday, November 4, 2009 3:34 pm

A Murfreesboro Rover bus driver was cited for leaving the scene of an accident after she was accused of hitting a business mailbox and leaving Monday on Lascassas Pike, a police officer reported.

Driver Carolyn Rankins was cited after questioning, Officer Brittany Maxwell reported.

Murfreesboro City spokesman Chris Shofner said Rankins was placed on administrative leave.

Rover supervisor Lesia McCluskey told Maxwell the bus driven by Rankins struck a mailbox owned by Pet Safari, causing $100 damage to the mailbox and more than $500 damage to the taillight and bus bumper.

The officer interviewed the bus driver.

“Mrs. Rankins stated she was driving on the shoulder of New Lascassas westbound,” Maxwell reported. “Mrs. Rankins passed her stop and attempted to reverse on the shoulder illegally. Mrs. Rankins crashed into the mailbox at 1635 New Lascassas, causing damage.”

Maxwell accused Rankins of leaving the scene after the crash.

“Mrs. Rankins stated she didn’t know she had to stay on the scene,” Maxwell reported.

Police notified the owners of Pet Safari about the damage.

A hearing on Rankins’ charge is pending in Murfreesboro City Court.