A seasoned MARTA bus driver tragically died Tuesday morning while on duty, according to the transit authority. Reports from FOX 5 Atlanta indicate the incident occurred at approximately 4:30 a.m., near the Hamilton E Holmes MARTA Station, adjacent to the Hamilton garage.

The driver, whose identity remains undisclosed, experienced what is being described as a "medical emergency" before the bus he was operating veered into a pole. Although the bus was damaged, reports from Atlanta News First confirm that, fortunately, there were no passengers on board at the time of the crash.

The loss resonates deeply within the MARTA community since the driver had been a part of the team for 20 years. In recognition of this tenure, and the impact of the loss, MARTA representatives have announced that grief counselors are being provided to support and attend to the emotional well-being of any affected colleagues at the Hamilton garage.