Pedestrian, Nicole Koschak, Killed in Metro Bus Accident in Santa Monica

Pedestrian Struck by Bus in Fatal Crash at Main Street and Ocean Park Boulevard

SANTA MONICA, Calif. (May 19, 2026) — A 39-year-old woman identified as Nicole Koschak died Friday afternoon after she was struck by a Metro bus near the intersection of Main Street and Ocean Park Boulevard in Santa Monica, authorities said.

The fatal incident occurred on May 15th around 2:40 p.m., according to the Santa Monica Police Department. Koschak was pronounced dead after suffering blunt force trauma, the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed Monday.

According to a statement from LA Metro, a westbound Metro Line 33 bus was pulling away from a stop at Main Street and Ocean Park Boulevard when it came into contact with a pedestrian, resulting in a fatal collision.

Investigators later reviewed surveillance footage from a nearby business that provided additional details about the circumstances leading up to the incident.

Investigators with the Santa Monica Police Dept. reported the Metro bus was stopped when the pedestrian moved underneath the bus. The bus driver did not know the pedestrian was there as the driver pulled away and ran over the pedestrian, causing fatal injuries.

Police said the Metro bus operator remained at the scene and cooperated fully with investigators. Authorities added there is currently no evidence of impairment or distraction by the driver.

Local reports indicated Koschak may have been experiencing homelessness, though officials have not confirmed additional details.

The collision remains under investigation. Anyone with information about the incident is encouraged to contact the Santa Monica Police Department at 310-458-8367 or the department’s watch commander at 310-458-8427.