Shuttle Driver That Hit Researcher Pleads Not Guilty

The driver of a central Ohio hospital shuttle bus that struck and killed one researcher and injured another has pleaded not guilty to vehicular homicide and other counts. Karl Beem, 62, of Columbus, is accused of negligently causing the death of the researcher and not being in reasonable control of the bus. Beem's attorney, Sam Shamansky, calls it a tragic accident. Shamansky said they'll seek a jury trial. Police say researchers David Newsom and Peter White were hit from behind while walking along a road at Nationwide Children's Hospital on May 29. They were walking along a road where the sidewalk was blocked due to construction. Newsom, 35, died in the accident. A hospital spokeswoman said Beem is on leave.