Canada Bus Joyride Ends Safely After Passenger Takes Transit Vehicle on Route

A man in Hamilton, Ontario, took an Ontario Transit bus on an unauthorized joyride Tuesday night, ferrying around ten passengers along its route before police safely intervened. Remarkably, no one was injured during the incident, and the man even politely denied boarding to a passenger with an expired bus pass.

Hamilton police said the man boarded the articulated bus while the regular driver stepped out for a break. He drove the vehicle along its normal route, making stops for passengers to enter and exit. At first, riders did not realize he was not the official driver, but they began giving him directions after he made several wrong turns.

“It’s comical but at the same time it’s serious. We’re thankful nobody was hurt,” said Hamilton police spokesperson Trevor McKenna.

Police tracked the bus using GPS and followed discreetly, keeping sirens off to avoid spooking the driver and preventing a potential accident. After approximately 15 minutes, officers safely stopped the vehicle and took the man into custody.

The suspect, who has no fixed address, faces charges including theft and possession over $5,000, obstructing police, and driving while prohibited.

The unusual event drew attention for its mix of audacity and civility, as the man reportedly adhered to the bus rules by refusing entry to a passenger with an expired pass while executing the joyride.