Joyride on Public Transit Bus in Ontario Ends Without Injury

A man took an Ontario transit bus on a joyride with approximately ten passengers onboard, sparking an unusual incident that ended without any injuries. The event occurred on the evening of March 12, 2024, when the legitimate bus driver exited the vehicle at a terminal for a break. During this brief moment, a man boarded the bus and drove away, making various stops along the route.

As the man operated the bus, he even turned down a passenger attempting to board with an expired bus pass. “It’s comical but at the same time it’s serious. We’re thankful nobody was hurt,” commented Trevor McKenna, spokesperson for the Hamilton Police. This statement reflects the bizarre nature of the incident while acknowledging the potential risks involved.

Initially, the passengers did not realize that the individual behind the wheel was not the actual bus driver. As the bus made unexpected turns, they began providing directions, inadvertently assisting him in navigating the route. Hamilton police, aware of the situation, followed the bus while taking precautions for public safety.

According to a press release from the Hamilton Police, they collaborated with Hamilton Street Railway to access the bus’s GPS data, all while keeping their sirens off to avoid alarming the driver. “We didn’t want to spook him,” McKenna noted. “We didn’t want to make this a tragedy.”

The joyride lasted approximately 15 minutes before police were able to stop the bus safely and take the suspect into custody without further incident. Fortunately, no one sustained injuries during the event.

The man, whose identity has not been disclosed, is reported to have no fixed address. He faces multiple charges, including theft, possession over $5,000, obstructing police, and driving while prohibited. He is set to appear in court to respond to these charges.

This unusual occurrence has drawn attention not only for its comedic elements but also for the serious implications of public safety within transit systems.