£1000 reward for details of thug who shot at bus driver

National Express is offering a £1000 reward to anyone who can help identify a male who held a bus driver at gun point over a £1.70 fare.

The youth, who was captured on several CCTV cameras, boarded the 24 service in Quinton at approximately midday on 6 October. He refused to pay his fare and when asked to leave the vehicle produced a ball bearing gun and shot at the driver seven times. 

The driver’s security screen deflected the ball bearings but clear indentations were left on the plastic. The incident upset passengers travelling on the service and National Express want to ensure the man is brought to justice.  They are offering the reward for information leading to the identification and prosecution of the culprit. 

Dave Kaye, Managing Director of National Express Bus said: “We will not tolerate violence towards our drivers and have offered £1000 for information leading to the identification and prosecution of this individual. 

“While incidents like this are rare, we are not complacent and want this person brought to justice. We work closely with West Midlands Police to clamp down on crime and anti social behaviour and as a result  crime is now at its lowest level for four years. Providing safe journeys is our priority and we urge anyone with further information about this person to get in touch.”

The offender was black, aged around 17 years, 5ft 6in tall, medium build with short black hair. He was wearing a yellow hoody with the words ‘Jack Moody’ across the front. 

Insp. Cate Webb-Jones of the Safer Travel Police Team adds, “We are making a direct appeal for the public to provide us with details about this offender so that we can bring him to justice. He showed little regard for. anyone on the bus at that time and the potential consequences of his actions.  Any information, however small may be of assistance.”

All National Express West Midlands buses have CCTV in several locations and the company routinely shares images with the Police. 

If you know the individual or can provide any further information please contact Sgt Hurst at the Safer Travel Police Team via 0345 113 5000 or e-mail safer_travel@west-midlands.police.uk

Published 23rd November 2010