Metro News Release
For immediate release: November 13, 2006
Fight erupts on Metrobus
The Metro Transit Police Department (MTPD) is actively working with regional law enforcement partners to identify and interview individuals who witnessed an altercation that occurred on a Metrobus on Saturday night on Good Hope Road in Southeast Washington, D.C. Though no serious injuries were reported, the bus had eight broken windows and damages are estimated at $3,100. Police are asking anyone with information to call MTPD at 202-962-2121 or the MTPD Criminal Investigations Division at 202-962-1792.
A group of juveniles boarded the Metrobus around 7:20 p.m. at Good Hope Road and 15th Street, SE, and began fighting with other juveniles already onboard. Fighting broke out both on the bus and on the street. The bus operator activated the emergency alarm. Fearing for her safety, the operator exited the bus. She has been employed by Metrobus since August 2005.
A 15 year-old male took control of the bus and drove it a few blocks. The Metro Transit Police pulled over the vehicle at Good Hope Road and Altamont Street, SE. The juvenile told police he moved the bus to get it out of harm’s way.
The Metrobus involved in the incident was a route 92 traveling to the Congress Heights Metrorail station. The emergency alarm used by the operator activates flashing lights and an “emergency call police” message on the destination sign.
Metro Transit Police are continuing to investigate the incident and interview witnesses. Anyone with information should call 202-962-2121.
Last month, MTPD reported an increase in serious crime in the rail and bus system. The rise in crime on Metro reflects trends seen in the Washington region and the rest of the country. However, crime on Metrorail and Metrobus is low overall with less than two crimes reported per million passengers. From January through October, there were 46 reports of aggravated assaults on Metrobus, compared with 37 for the same period in 2005.
News release issued on November 13, 2006.