A routine Omnitrans run through Chino turned violent early Wednesday when a Pomona man allegedly attacked the bus driver, then bolted from the scene. Chino police later shared video of the confrontation, which shows a passenger hurl something at the driver and throw several punches before sprinting off the bus. Officers tracked the suspect down shortly afterward and arrested him following a brief foot chase.
Police: Video Shows Unprovoked Strike On Driver
The Chino Police Department posted the clip to its Instagram account. In the short video, a man in a blue polo chats with the driver for a moment, then suddenly throws an object and starts swinging, according to the department’s description. The footage is grainy but clearly captures the suspect rushing off the bus on foot as stunned riders react. The full video and caption are available on Instagram.
Helicopter And Camera Network Helped Officers Zero In
Police identified the suspect as 23-year-old Robert Kirkwood and said he was booked on felony assault charges, according to CBS Los Angeles. The department said officers relied on its real-time crime center and citywide camera system, while a department helicopter referred to as “Air5” guided ground units to Kirkwood’s location. Officers also said they found drug paraphernalia on him during the arrest.
Transit Safety Campaign Puts Riders On Notice
Long before this incident, Omnitrans teamed up with WeTip on a “Don’t Touch the Driver” safety campaign that warns any assault on a driver will be prosecuted, according to WeTip. The agency urges passengers to speak up about threats or violence and to use available anonymous tip lines. Chino police said no additional information was immediately available as the investigation continues.
