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Lawyer: NYC Bus Driver Sober, Awake Before Crash

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork/AP) -- A lawyer for the driver of a tour bus that crashed in New York City and killed 15 people said he was sober and fully awake when the accident happened.

Fatal Bronx Bus Crash
Investigators at the scene of the crash (credit: CBS 2)

Sean H. Rooney told The New York Times driver Ophadell Williams was in control of the bus until a tractor-trailer veered toward it on a highway. He said the driver claims he lost control after swerving to avoid the truck.

Rooney scoffed at reports passengers told police the bus repeatedly swerved onto the highway shoulder before the March 12 crash. He called the reports "nonsense," adding that says Williams doesn't smoke, drink or do drugs.

Investigators were looking into whether Williams was asleep or distracted as he drove from a casino in Uncasville, Conn. Williams hasn't been charged.

Williams spoke with CBS 2's Pablo Guzman outside of his Brooklyn home on Monday, appearing to have suffered an anxiety attack recalling the crash.

Investigators have said Williams' license was suspended over infractions he received under the alias, "Eric Williams."

Whom do you believe is at fault for the crash? Let us know below...

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