Hamilton police say a man boarded an HSR articulated bus while the driver took a break and drove it for about 15 minutes with roughly 10 passengers aboard. He followed the route, made multiple stops and refused a rider with an expired pass. Officers tracked the vehicle via GPS, kept sirens off to avoid escalation, and arrested the suspect without incident; no one was hurt. The man, who has no fixed address, faces charges including theft and possession over $5,000.
Man Steals Ontario Transit Bus for 15-Minute Joyride in Hamilton — Refuses Rider with Expired Pass
Hamilton police say a man boarded an HSR articulated bus while the driver took a break and drove it for about 15 minutes with roughly 10 passengers aboard. He followed the route, made multiple stops and refused a rider with an expired pass. Officers tracked the vehicle via GPS, kept sirens off to avoid escalation, and arrested the suspect without incident; no one was hurt. The man, who has no fixed address, faces charges including theft and possession over $5,000.
01:29 PM, 11/14/2025Society
Man Drives Ontario Transit Bus for 15-Minute Joyride in Hamilton
Hamilton police say a man boarded an articulated Hamilton Street Railway (HSR) bus Tuesday night after the scheduled driver stepped out for a break and then drove the vehicle for about 15 minutes with roughly 10 passengers on board. Officers report the bus largely followed its regular route, with the suspect making several stops to let passengers on and off and even refusing a would‑be rider whose bus pass had expired.
Riders initially did not realize the person behind the wheel was not the official operator; when he began making wrong turns, passengers tried to help by offering directions. Concerned for public safety, Hamilton police trailed the bus and worked with HSR to access its GPS. Officers deliberately kept lights and sirens off to avoid escalating the situation.
"It's comical but at the same time it's serious. We're thankful nobody was hurt," Hamilton police spokesperson Trevor McKenna said.
After about 15 minutes, police were able to safely stop the bus and take the suspect into custody without incident. No injuries were reported.
Police are not naming the suspect. They say he has no fixed address and has been charged with theft and possession over $5,000, obstructing police and driving while prohibited. He is scheduled to appear in court to answer the charges.
Police statement: Authorities emphasized their measured response — using GPS tracking and avoiding a high‑pressure confrontation — to minimize risk to passengers and the public.