Teen Arrested for Brutal Beating of Bus Driver in Jerusalem

A 15-year-old boy from Jerusalem was arrested overnight on suspicion of brutally assaulting a bus driver in Beit Shemesh, leaving him unconscious and moderately injured. The attack occurred after the driver refused to let the teenager exit the bus at a non-designated stop. The suspect is expected to appear in court later today for an extension of his remand.

The incident took place on Egged bus line 2, operated by Nativ Express. An argument erupted between the 48-year-old driver and the minor when the latter demanded to exit the bus. The driver refused, citing regulations against opening doors at unscheduled locations and the need to ensure passenger safety. In response, the teenager allegedly spat at the driver and proceeded to beat him severely until he lost consciousness, before fleeing the scene. The driver was evacuated to a hospital for medical treatment.

The assaulted driver, identified as "A", recounted the event, stating he heard the attacker shout to friends about the assault, suggesting it was planned and a source of pride. He described the attack as involving a metal object, not just fists, and expressed his determination to pursue the matter. "I didn't intend to let this slide," he stated.

Itai Cohen, head of the transportation branch at the "Koach LaOvdim" organization, condemned the attack, warning that such violence against public transport workers will not cease unless lives are lost. He called for immediate action, including increased security in cities like Beit Shemesh, full separation between drivers and passengers, and official recognition of public transport workers as public officials to ensure perpetrators face appropriate punishment.

This incident follows a similar attack on a bus driver from the Kavim company in Modi'in two weeks prior. In that case, an 18-year-old was arrested and his remand extended after allegedly breaking through a protective barrier, shattering glass, and assaulting the driver.