Bus driver killed in I-80 crash in Nevada

The Utah Highway Patrol on Tuesday identified the driver of a charter bus who was killed Monday when his coach, carrying more than 50 casino tourists, slammed into the rear of a heavy construction truck.Pita Asiata the 53-year-old father of professional football star Matt Asiata — was killed when his Wendover-bound Le Bus collided with the big rig on Interstate 80, about 33 miles east of the Utah-Nevada border gambling town.Le Bus spokesman Tim Brown confirmed that Asiata, of Bountiful, was the father of the former Hunter High and University of Utah and current Minnesota Vikings running back. He said the family was preparing a statement.Efforts to reach Matt Asiata on Tuesday through the Vikings’ front office were not immediately successful.U. football coach Kyle Whittingham offered the sympathy of his team and program as well to Matt Asiata and Shawn Asiata, who also played for the Utes."We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Pita Asiata, the father of Matt and Shawn Asiata," he said. "Our thoughts and prayers go out to Matt, Shawn and their entire family as they go through this extremely difficult time."