File photo
The search continues today for a man that tried to rob a city bus and attacked the driver.
A family member told BayToday that the bus driver is ok and that his injuries are minor. "He will recover quickly physically but mentally will take some time."
Late last night, North Bay Police were called about an unknown man who tried to steal the bus fares from a city bus.
Just before midnight the man boarded a city bus, took out a knife and demanded that the driver give him money from the fare box.
When the driver explained that he did not have access to the box, the man ordered him to drive.
They drove for a few minutes and eventually down John Street to the end of Old Callander Road, where the man left the bus and fled on foot in the bush.
There were no passengers on the bus at the time.
Paramedics took the driver to hospital with minor injuries.
Police are looking to identify the male suspect described as in his late 40s or 50s, wearing jeans and a black hoodie, with acne scars on both side of his face.
His hair was described as black, dirty and messy and he was unshaven.
A woman who claims to have spoken to the man beforehand told BayToday "Met this man yesterday at the bus terminal with my friends. He seemed to be looking for a man and asked if we saw him calling him choice words. He came up to us and followed us for a bit until we boarded a different bus. This man is very unstable and very frightening. He threatened to kill the man he was looking for so I suggest pedestrians do not confront him if he is seen."
Police seek public’s assistance
Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact the North Bay Police Service at 705-472-1234. For those with information who wish to report it anonymously, there are three ways to contact Crime Stoppers. Call toll-free at 1-800-222-8477, text the word “Nipper” plus tip information to 274637, or submit your tip online at nearnorthcrimestoppers.com.
Public alert
North Bay Police ask the public to call 911 if they see the suspect.
The public is also advised to not approach or engage in a conversation with the suspect as it has been reported that he can exhibit violent behaviour and may be dangerous.
Meanwhile, a news release from the city termed the incident "serious" and says that transit and City resources will be providing support to the driver.
Transit is conducting its own internal investigation.
John Severino, Managing Director Community Services, said "It is important to note that the incident is isolated. It did not occur on a scheduled route and thus did not put any of our traveling public at risk."
Severino told BayToday that cameras on buses is not being considered "at this time".
"We are conducting an investigation and from that will have a range of options that will surface."
