A London bus driver who heroically intervened to recover a stolen necklace from a passenger has been dismissed from his position, sparking widespread public outrage and political support. Mark Hehir, a 62-year-old former driver for operator Metroline, pursued a thief who snatched jewellery from passenger Katalin Kaszas during a journey in North West London.
Passenger Declares Dismissal 'Unjust'
Katalin Kaszas, the 46-year-old victim of the robbery, has expressed profound guilt and anger over Mr Hehir's termination. She revealed feeling "so guilty" upon learning of his dismissal and told the Press Association: "I think it was unjust. I don't think he deserved that. If he doesn't do what he did, anything could have happened to me."
Overwhelming Public Support Emerges
More than 125,000 people have signed a petition supporting Mr Hehir, created after an employment tribunal upheld Metroline's decision to dismiss the driver. In a further demonstration of public backing, a GoFundMe campaign for the former driver has accumulated more than £28,000 in donations.
Political Figures Voice Support
Justice Secretary David Lammy addressed the House of Commons on Tuesday, stating that Mr Hehir "is of course a hero and deserves our support," adding that he was "following this case very closely." Meanwhile, shadow justice minister Kieran Mullan welcomed Mr Hehir to parliament, telling PA: "I think Metroline need to come out and apologise, Mark deserves an apology, it's quite clear they've gotten this wrong."
Incident Details Revealed
The incident occurred on 25th June 2024 while Mr Hehir was operating the 206 bus route between Wembley and Maida Vale. After passing Harlesden High Street, a passenger shoved past a woman, grabbing a necklace from her neck before fleeing the vehicle.
Confrontation and Self-Defence
Mr Hehir pursued the individual down the road, successfully retrieving the necklace and returning it to the female passenger. The thief then reappeared, approaching the bus and delivering "the first punch" at Mr Hehir, according to tribunal evidence. The bus driver reacted in self-defence, striking the individual once and rendering him unconscious before holding him on the pavement for approximately half an hour until police arrived.
Police Review Supports Driver's Actions
Both individuals were arrested following the incident, though Mr Hehir was later released and informed he would face no further police action. A police case review concluded that "the claimant had used force which was proportionate and necessary in the circumstances in the defence of himself and the female passenger."
Operator Stands By Decision
A Metroline spokesperson responded to the growing controversy by stating: "The tribunal has upheld the dismissal as fair." The company maintains its position despite mounting public pressure and political criticism over their handling of the situation.
The case continues to generate significant debate about employee protections, appropriate responses to criminal incidents on public transport, and corporate responsibility in supporting staff who intervene to protect passengers.
