London Assembly Urges Apology for Sacked Hero Bus Driver
In a city where public transport is the lifeline for millions, one bus driver's act of bravery has ignited a fierce debate on justice, safety, and corporate accountability. Mark Hehir, a 62-year-old driver originally from County Limerick, Ireland, became an overnight sensation in June 2024 after intervening in a brazen theft on his London bus route. But what started as a heroic moment ended in dismissal, prompting the London Assembly to unanimously pass a motion demanding an apology, reinstatement, or compensation. This story isn't just about one man—it's a rallying cry for better protection of transport workers who put themselves on the line for passengers.
The Incident That Sparked Outrage
On a routine shift driving the 206 bus from Wembley to Maida Vale in north-west London, Hehir witnessed passenger Katalin Kaszas fall victim to a thief who snatched her necklace. Without hesitation, Hehir chased the culprit down the street, retrieved the stolen item, and returned it to the relieved woman. But the story took a dramatic turn when the thief reboarded the bus, leading to a confrontation. CCTV footage later revealed the man throwing a punch at Hehir, who responded by knocking him unconscious in what he described as self-defense.
Kaszas, the victim whose necklace was recovered, has been vocal in her praise. 'He made me feel safe,' she told the BBC. 'Since there's no Mark on the buses, I don't feel that safe anymore because I know the next driver isn't going to step off the bus to protect me—he's going to lose his job.' Her words capture the human element of a case that has resonated deeply with London's commuters, many of whom rely on bus drivers not just for transport, but for a sense of security amid rising street crime.
From Hero to Jobless: The Aftermath
The very next day, on June 25, 2024, Hehir was suspended by his employer, Metroline, pending an investigation. Despite the Met Police deeming his actions 'proportionate and necessary' and releasing him without charges—the thief was also arrested—Metroline deemed the incident gross misconduct. The company cited three key breaches: bringing the firm into disrepute by assaulting a passenger, physically injuring someone, and leaving the bus unattended with the engine running while chasing the thief.
An employment tribunal later upheld the dismissal, even after reviewing CCTV evidence that showed the thief's aggression. Metroline maintained that the man had returned to the bus intending to apologize and shake hands, a claim that has been widely disputed. Hehir, now working as a barman in Wembley, expressed his thrill at the Assembly's support but remains steadfast: 'I acted to protect my passenger. That's what any decent person would do.'
Public and Political Backlash
The public's response has been overwhelming. A petition urging Metroline to reverse its decision has amassed over 135,000 signatures, turning Hehir into a symbol of everyday heroism stifled by bureaucracy. Social media buzzes with hashtags like #ReinstateMarkHehir and #HeroBusDriver, as commuters share stories of their own encounters with crime on public transport.
Politically, the case has gained traction. On February 5, 2026, the London Assembly passed a unanimous motion recognizing the 'overwhelming public concern.' It calls on Mayor Sadiq Khan and Transport for London (TfL) to launch a full investigation and establish clear guidelines ensuring transport workers who act in good faith are 'treated fairly and supported, not punished.' Justice Secretary David Lammy echoed this sentiment in the House of Commons, declaring Hehir 'of course a hero and deserves our support.'
TfL has responded cautiously, noting that bus drivers are employed by private operators like Metroline, who handle staff matters independently. A spokesperson emphasized: 'Bus drivers in London are employed directly by the individual bus operating companies. Each operator is responsible for the employment of its staff.' The mayor's office has been approached for comment but has yet to respond publicly.
Broader Implications for London's Transport Workers
This incident shines a spotlight on the precarious position of London's 25,000-plus bus drivers. In an era of increasing antisocial behavior on public transport— from thefts to assaults—workers like Hehir are often the first line of defense. Yet strict protocols prioritize de-escalation and safety, sometimes at the expense of those enforcing them. Unions and advocacy groups argue that clearer self-defense policies could prevent similar injustices, encouraging drivers to intervene without fear of reprisal.
Experts in employment law point out that while tribunals uphold company rules, public pressure can influence outcomes. 'Cases like this test the balance between corporate liability and individual heroism,' says employment specialist Dr. Elena Torres. 'The Assembly's motion could set a precedent, pushing TfL toward more robust support frameworks.' For Hehir, the fight is personal: after decades in the industry, he seeks not just vindication but a system that values passenger safety as much as procedural adherence.
A Call for Change in the Capital
As London grapples with its transport challenges, Hehir's story underscores a vital truth: heroes wear hi-vis vests, not capes. The motion's passage marks a turning point, but true change requires action from TfL and operators like Metroline. Will an apology come? Will guidelines evolve to shield those who protect us? For now, Hehir waits, his tale a reminder that in the rush of the daily commute, one act of courage can ripple through an entire city.
Stay tuned to Everythiiing.com for updates on this developing story. Have you experienced similar incidents on London transport? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
