A Metro bus driver is in critical condition after being stabbed multiple times in Woodland Hills. The search for the suspect is currently underway.
An incident was reported on Wednesday at around 5:20 p.m. near the bus stop located at Topanga Canyon Boulevard and Erwin Street. Police officers responded promptly to a report of an assault involving a lethal weapon.
Police have reported that a suspect boarded a bus and engaged in a "verbal argument" with the driver.
Late Wednesday night, police released a statement reporting that a bus driver and a suspect got into an argument and exited the bus. During the argument, the suspect pulled out a knife or sharp object and stabbed the bus driver multiple times.
An unidentified driver underwent surgery at Northridge Hospital Medical Centre, according to police.
Police report that the suspect was last spotted travelling eastbound on Erwin Street from Topanga Canyon. A 21-year-old white male with blonde curly hair is currently being described by authorities. According to police reports, a suspect was spotted wearing a red shirt, black trousers and a black backpack. The individual is described as being 6 feet tall with a thin build.
According to officials, all Metro buses are now equipped with cameras. The suspect has been apprehended by the police with the help of surveillance cameras. The authorities were able to identify the culprit by analysing the footage and have released some photos for public identification.
Mayor Karen Bass paid a visit to the hospital to check on the driver and subsequently issued a statement.
A Metro driver has been tragically harmed in a heinous act of violence, which has been described as horrific. The City family and fans are praying for him tonight, as his condition remains unknown. The player's family is also in the thoughts of many during this difficult time.
Transit operators in Los Angeles are an integral part of the daily lives of many residents. They transport children to school, bring people home from work, and are a constant presence in the city, operating 24/7. Passengers are reminded of their responsibility to ensure the safety of public transport. It is important to acknowledge the role of transport in our daily lives and to take measures to protect it.
The Mayor and Metro Board member has announced that safety on Metro is a top priority and has pledged to redouble efforts to ensure the safety of transit riders and workers.
Metro has recently unveiled a new programme that will introduce "safety ambassadors" on buses and trains. The programme was announced in March and aims to enhance safety measures for commuters. An ambassador was not on the bus involved in this incident.
Safety ambassadors have been deployed on the Metro system to ensure the safety of commuters. According to Metro's communications manager, Dave Sotero, they serve a primary customer service role. Customer service representatives are present to assist customers. It has been emphasised that law enforcement is the appropriate responder for situations that may arise on various bus lines, despite the presence of ambassadors.
Despite the assistance of ambassadors, some individuals have expressed feeling unsafe while utilising bus transportation.
According to LAPD Deputy Chief Alan Hamilton, while he believes it is safe, incidents of this nature do occur. Public transport users are advised to remain vigilant of their surroundings, according to recent statements. Citizens are being urged to report any suspicious activity they witness.
Police are urging anyone with information on a recent stabbing to come forward.
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