A london bus driver lost his job. Mark Hehir, 62, intervened in a theft. He chased a thief. He recovered stolen property. He was then sacked by his employer, Metroline. This news has become trending london news.
The Incident Unfolds
The event occurred on June 25, 2024. Mr. Hehir drove the 206 bus route. This route serves areas in north-west London. A man boarded the bus. He snatched a necklace. The thief stole it from passenger Katalin Kaszas. Mr. Hehir reacted quickly. He exited the bus. He pursued the thief. He successfully retrieved the necklace. He returned it to Ms. Kaszas.
Confrontation and Police Involvement
However, the situation escalated. The thief reappeared. He approached the bus again. He threw the first punch at Mr. Hehir. Mr. Hehir defended himself. He struck the man once. This action knocked the thief unconscious. Mr. Hehir then held the man. He restrained him on the pavement. This lasted for nearly 30 minutes. Police arrived at the scene. Both men were arrested. Later, police released Mr. Hehir. They stated he would face no further action. A police review found his force was proportionate. It was also deemed necessary. This was for his own defense and the passenger’s. The review confirmed he acted in self-defense.
The Dismissal and Tribunal Ruling
Despite police clearance, Metroline sacked Mr. Hehir. The company cited protocol breaches. They claimed he brought the company into disrepute. They also alleged he failed to protect passengers. An employment tribunal later heard the case. This tribunal upheld Metroline’s decision. They found the dismissal fair. Metroline stated safety protocols were breached. Passenger and staff safety is their priority.
Passenger’s Plea and Public Outcry
Katalin Kaszas, the victim, feels immense guilt. She believes Mr. Hehir did not deserve to be sacked. She stated the decision was unjust. Ms. Kaszas said anything could have happened to her. She feels Mr. Hehir acted to protect her. Public support for the driver has been overwhelming. A petition quickly gained traction. It has over 125,000 signatures. A GoFundMe page was also set up. It has raised more than £28,000. Many see Mr. Hehir as a hero.
Political Support Emerges
Justice Secretary David Lammy called Mr. Hehir a hero. He stated he deserves support. Mr. Lammy is following the case closely. Shadow justice minister Kieran Mullan also voiced concern. He met with Mr. Hehir in parliament. Mr. Mullan believes Metroline made a mistake. He thinks an apology is necessary. He stated the company clearly got it wrong. Discussions are ongoing about ‘good Samaritan’ protections. These could shield employees in similar situations.
Driver’s Perspective
Mark Hehir finds the public backing incredible. He does not seek to return to his job. He cannot work for a company that treats staff poorly. He hopes Metroline will apologize. He also seeks compensation for lost earnings. He feels justified in his actions. He is surprised by the lack of negative feedback. He finds the public’s agreement widespread.
Conclusion
This controversial news highlights a difficult conflict. It pits company policy against public perception of heroism. The passenger and many others see Mr. Hehir as a protector. The tribunal and Metroline view his actions as misconduct. The debate continues to gain attention. It raises questions about employee rights. It also questions the support for individuals who step in to help. This situation remains a significant talking point in london.
