Joyride on Ontario Bus Ends Safely After 15 Minutes of Chaos

A man took an Ontario transit bus on an unexpected joyride on the evening of March 12, 2024, leaving about ten passengers onboard. The incident began when the legitimate bus driver stopped at a terminal for a break, allowing the man to board and drive the bus along its route through Hamilton. Remarkably, the police reported that no passengers were injured during the escapade, which lasted approximately 15 minutes.

The man operated the articulated bus without any apparent damage, even refusing entry to a passenger attempting to board with an expired bus pass. In a statement, Hamilton police spokesperson Trevor McKenna described the situation as “comical but at the same time it’s serious,” emphasizing gratitude that no one was hurt.

As the man navigated the bus, passengers initially remained unaware that he was not the official driver. It was only when he began making incorrect turns that they realized something was amiss. Passengers then attempted to assist him by providing directions, according to reports from CBC.

Hamilton police monitored the situation closely, prioritizing public safety. They worked in tandem with Hamilton Street Railway to access the bus’s GPS, ensuring that their sirens remained off to avoid alarming the driver. “We didn’t want to spook him,” McKenna stated. “We didn’t want to make this a tragedy.”

Eventually, police were able to safely stop the bus and take the suspect into custody without incident. The individual, whose identity has not been disclosed, has no fixed address. He faces several charges, including theft and possession over $5,000, obstructing police, and driving while prohibited. The suspect is set to appear in court to respond to these charges.

This unusual incident highlights both the vulnerabilities within public transport systems and the quick response of law enforcement in ensuring passenger safety. Hamilton police have not reported any injuries, and the event serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance in public spaces.