Pedestrian struck and killed by METRO bus in downtown Houston near Rusk and Smith, identified as city employee

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — A pedestrian who was struck and killed by a METRO bus in downtown Houston Friday morning has been identified as a city employee.

Investigators said the incident happened near Rusk and Smith just before 7:40 a.m.

Lt. Tim McClelland with the METRO Police Department said the pedestrian was in the crosswalk at the intersection and had the right of way.

That's when McClelland said the light turned green and the bus turned toward Rusk, fatally striking the victim.

METRO said the bus was operated by First Transit. Police said the contracted driver was cooperating with investigators.

There were reportedly two passengers on the bus, but no other injuries were reported.

Authorities identified the victim as Damilola Matuluko, who had worked for the city's HR Operations Employee Relations Team since 2023.

“Even though Damilola had only been with Human Resources for a short time, she had become a valued and influential member of the team. She will be sincerely missed by her colleagues in the City of Houston,” said Jane Cheeks, Director of human resources of the COH, in a press release.

McClelland said the district attorney's office is investigating to see if charges will be filed.

ABC13 also asked McClelland if Friday's rainy weather had an impact on the crash, but he said the investigation was still ongoing.

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