Metro bus driver attacked on Memorial Day

A Metro bus driver was attacked while on the job on Monday, one of the latest violent incidents.

It occurred around 9:50 a.m. on a bus traveling south on Spring Street, just south of Temple Street, Metro officials confirmed.

“Metro is angry that once again a member of our community has chosen to attack one of our most important bus drivers,” said Jose Ubaldo, a spokesman for Metro Los Angeles. “Our employees have a right to a safe workplace and our customers have a right to a safe ride. We are stepping up our work to prevent crime on our system.”

The bus driver reportedly recognized the suspected homeless attacker from previous incidents and attempted to prevent her from boarding by closing the doors, according to the LAPD. However, the suspect’s arm was trapped between the doors and she allegedly lunged at the driver when the doors reopened. The suspect then grabbed the driver’s glasses, breaking the glasses and scratching her face, according to police.

No arrests were reported.

Metro officials said they need the public’s help to prevent and prosecute such crimes. The organization asked anyone with information to help the LAPD arrest the perpetrator by calling the LA Regional Crime Stoppers hotline at 800-222-TIPS or 800-222-8477.