Woman Charged with 2nd-Degree Murder in L.A. Bus Crash That Killed Two

Woman charged with second-degree murder after fatal L.A. bus crash. News helicopter tragedy adds to the tragedy.

September 18, 2026 One Min Read

POLICY WIRE — Los Angeles, United States — A woman has been charged with second-degree murder following a deadly bus crash in Los Angeles, officials confirmed Thursday.

Bailee Lynn Rios, 36, was taken into custody Wednesday over the incident that resulted in the deaths of two passengers. The crash occurred as a news helicopter was covering the event, which later led to the chopper crashing nearby, killing the reporter and pilot on board, as well as a pedestrian on the ground.

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The Los Angeles County District Attorney, Nathan Hochman, called the incident a preventable tragedy. Rios faces additional charges, including driving under the influence of a drug and reckless driving. She is expected to appear in court Friday and is being held on $4 million bail. The investigation is still ongoing, and officials have not yet determined if the helicopter-related deaths will be included in her case.

Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)

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