The union representing Mississauga traffic workers is calling for better safety protocols after a bus driver had to fight a man who allegedly tried to take control of a MiWay bus in Mississauga.
The incident happened during the night of Tuesday. Peel Regional Police responded to a call near Burnhamthorpe Road West and Erindale Station Road around 12:30 a.m. about a man who allegedly approached a driver and began damaging his vehicle.
The man himself, police said, boarded a MiWay bus and tried to take control.
“While the kidnapping attempt was fighting with the operator to take control of the bus, the operator fought against it and was able to stop the vehicle safely,” ATU Local 1572 said in a statement on Wednesday. press.
The city confirmed the incident and said that when a traffic supervisor arrived at the scene, the suspect abandoned the bus and stole his vehicle.
“This is just one more reminder of the dangers our traffic professionals face on a daily basis in the performance of their duty,” ATU Local 1572 President Jack Jackson said in a union statement.
“Mississauga City Council must take all acts of aggression more seriously, as they are clear precursors to more serious events that may follow. Events such as the ones we have just witnessed. Adequate front-line support and better Response times are just a principle to protect our members. “
Police were able to locate the suspect using a GPS tracker in the supervisor’s car. He was arrested shortly afterwards and faces various charges.
No one was injured in the incident.
However, the union said it was just the latest example of a growing list of violent incidents involving traffic workers.
“The growing number of assaults and operator violence we face reinforces our call for immediate action with better protection for the public and our operators,” said ATU Canada President John Di Nino. in a statement. “As the traffic operator processes this traumatic event, we will provide support and assistance for a speedy recovery.”
The city said in a statement that the incident is being taken “very seriously” and a full investigation is underway.
“We continue to work cooperatively with Peel’s regional police as they continue their investigation into this incident. As part of the investigation, MiWay’s management is committed to finding ways to prevent such incidents in the future.” said Geoff Wright, the commissioner for Transport and Works.
“The safety of our staff, including bus operators as well as our passengers, is our top priority. We have been in contact with the MiWay operator who was affected by this incident and will ensure that they are supported during research and beyond. “
Wright said the city is looking to install more protective barriers on MiWay buses to protect drivers from violence and harassment.
He added that the city has taken steps to include funding for the barriers in its current budget.
“We are currently working with manufacturers on what driver protection systems can be put in place and look forward to moving forward with a system in the near future,” Wright said.