Los Angeles, California – Public transit riders in Los Angeles are expressing growing concerns over safety on buses and trains after a recent violent attack on an L.A. Dash bus operator. The incident, captured on video, involved a homeless woman assaulting the bus driver after being denied entry onto the bus. This attack is just one in a series of incidents that have raised alarm among passengers using the city and county’s public transportation systems.
The escalating violence on public transit has left riders like Sandra Pizano worried about their safety, particularly on Metro buses and trains operated by the county’s Metropolitan Transit Authority. Pizano rated the Metro services poorly, citing ongoing safety issues that are not being effectively addressed.
In response to these safety concerns, Metro operators staged a “sick out” protest after several violent and fatal attacks on drivers and passengers. Incidents include a fatal stabbing on a Metro train and a bus driver being attacked by a passenger. The city’s public transit system has also seen cases of hijackings and crashes, adding to the sense of insecurity among riders and operators.
Amidst calls for increased security measures on public transit, the Los Angeles Urban Policy Roundtable is advocating for the implementation of roving security teams to protect drivers and passengers. Metro has acknowledged the need for enhanced security and has deployed security officers on high-risk bus routes while also planning for long-term security measures.
The root cause of these attacks, according to Metro, lies in untreated mental illness and drug addiction, contributing to the rise in unprovoked incidents on public transit. As the city grapples with these safety challenges, riders like Laura Ismael emphasize the urgent need for action to ensure the protection of both drivers and passengers before the situation worsens.
Following the arrest of the assailant in the recent bus attack, questions remain about potential charges and the well-being of the Dash driver involved. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks faced by public transit workers and passengers, prompting calls for swift and effective interventions to address safety concerns on Los Angeles’ public transportation systems.