Duck boat crash in Seattle that killed 4 raises safety concerns
SEATTLE — Even before a duck boat crashed into a charter bus in Seattle, killing four international students, calls had been made for greater oversight and even a ban on the military-style vehicles that allow tourists to see cities by road and water.
Critics say the large amphibious vehicles are built for war, not for ferrying tourists.
About 45 students and staff from North Seattle College were traveling Thursday to the city’s Pike Place Market and Safeco Field for orientation events when witnesses said the duck boat suddenly swerved into their oncoming charter bus.
Tracey said 36 people were on the vehicle, whose driver had Coast Guard certification and a commercial driving license.
The amphibious boats are remnants from when the U.S. Army deployed thousands of amphibious landing craft during World War II.