Two men arrested after assaulting a Calgary bus driver who refused to alter his route. The driver is now in stable condition.
Calgary Bus Driver Attacked for Refusing Route Change
Early Wednesday morning, a Calgary Transit bus driver was violently assaulted after declining to change his route for two passengers. The incident took place at 1:12 a.m. near Falconridge Boulevard and Castleridge Boulevard in the city’s northeast, according to Calgary police.
Driver Hospitalized, Condition Improves
The driver suffered serious injuries and was initially hospitalized in life-threatening condition. Fortunately, medical staff later reassessed his status as stable. Police confirmed that a bus passenger who tried to intervene was not seriously hurt during the altercation.
Two Suspects Arrested
Calgary police acted swiftly, arresting two men believed to be responsible for the attack. Investigators say the assault occurred after the suspects requested the driver to deviate from the scheduled route, and he refused.
We fully recognize that this is a highly concerning incident for Calgarians, and we are working with our partners at Calgary Transit to ensure all investigative leads are thoroughly examined and that the right supports are available for those directly impacted,” stated Acting Superintendent Gerry Francois.
City Leaders and Union Speak Out
The incident has sparked concern among city officials and transit workers. Mayor Jyoti Gondek called the attack “jarring and unacceptable,” emphasizing the dedication of transit staff. Mike Mahar, president of the Amalgamated Transit Union Local 583, described the event as “an absolutely vicious attack” and expressed relief that the driver survived.
Mahar stressed the dangers transit workers face daily, noting, “How many careers do you go to work and you don’t know if you’re going home or if you’re gonna be beat up? It’s devastating.”
Safety Remains a Major Concern
Union leaders report that 60 to 70 significant assaults on Calgary transit workers occur each year, often prompting staff to leave their jobs. Mahar called for improved security measures, including advanced surveillance technology, to protect operators both inside and outside the bus.
Doug Morgan, Calgary’s general manager of operational services, acknowledged the risks faced by frontline staff and offered support to the injured driver and his family.
This attack highlights ongoing safety concerns for Calgary Transit workers and has renewed calls for stronger protections and support for those serving on the city’s frontlines. The investigation continues as city leaders and union representatives push for meaningful change.
