A man is facing several charges after he drove off with an unattended Hamilton city bus, taking passengers on a “joy ride,” according to police.
While the driver was taking a break, a man allegedly entered the unattended bus and drove away with passengers still aboard, police say.
The man then allegedly drove the bus up the Hamilton Mountain, which is the upper part of the city, and made stops on the way, according to police, who say the man also allowed passengers to board and exit the bus freely.
Police also say the man even allegedly denied a passenger who attempted to board the bus with an expired bus pass and ensured that the passenger paid the appropriate fare.
“Keeping mindful of the potential risk to public safety, Hamilton Police officers strategically followed the bus and safely brought it to a stop on West 5th Street, where the suspect was taken into custody without incident,” Hamilton police said in the release.
Police say there were no injuries as a result of the incident.
The 36-year-old man, who has no fixed address, is facing charges for theft over $5,000, possession of stolen property over $5,000, obstructing police, and driving while prohibited.
The accused is set to appear in court to answer the charges, police say, but didn’t specify the date he is expected to appear.
“Hamilton Police would like to thank members of the public and HSR staff for their cooperation during this investigation,” the police service said.
