Support Grows for Sacked Bus Driver Mark Hehir After Theft Incident

Mark Hehir, a 62-year-old bus driver from Limerick, Ireland, was dismissed by Metroline after intervening in a theft on June 25, 2024, while driving the 206 bus in northwest London. During the incident, a young man snatched a necklace from passenger Katalin Kaszas and fled the bus. Hehir pursued the thief, retrieved the necklace, and returned it to Kaszas. However, the thief returned to the bus, allegedly attempting to confront Hehir. In response to the thief's aggression, Hehir punched him in self-defense, knocking him unconscious. Both men were arrested, but Hehir faced no further police action, as a police review deemed his response "proportionate and necessary."

Irish bus driver who chased necklace thief is hero, says British justice minister

The dismissal of Hehir has sparked significant public outcry, with over 125,000 people signing a petition advocating for his reinstatement. A GoFundMe campaign has raised more than £28,000 (€32,500) to support Hehir financially. British justice minister David Lammy publicly labeled Hehir a "hero" and expressed his support for the bus driver, emphasizing the need for justice in this case. Katalin Kaszas, the victim of the theft, expressed guilt over Hehir's firing, stating, "I think it was unjust. I don’t think [Hehir] deserved that."

Irish bus driver who chased necklace thief is hero, says British justice minister

Dr. Kieran Mullan, a Tory MP, has been vocal in his support for Hehir, describing the decision to uphold his dismissal as "absurd" and indicative of a "deeply twisted sense of justice." Mullan has called on London Mayor Sadiq Khan to intervene and encourage Metroline to reconsider their decision, suggesting that Hehir deserves an apology and potential reinstatement. Mullan's sentiments reflect a broader public opinion that views Hehir's actions as a commendable effort to protect a passenger.

Irish bus driver who chased necklace thief is hero, says British justice minister

Despite the public support, Metroline has maintained that the employment tribunal's decision to uphold Hehir's dismissal was fair. The tribunal found that Hehir's actions, while initially justified, constituted gross misconduct according to the company's policies. Critics argue that this decision sends a troubling message about the consequences of intervening in criminal acts, suggesting that individuals who act to protect others may not receive support from their employers.

Irish bus driver who chased necklace thief is hero, says British justice minister

As public support continues to grow, the future for Mark Hehir remains uncertain. The petition and fundraising efforts indicate a strong community backing, and calls for Metroline to engage with Hehir are gaining traction. The outcome of this situation could set a precedent for how companies respond to employees who intervene in criminal activities, highlighting the ongoing debate about personal responsibility and corporate policies in public safety scenarios.

Irish bus driver who chased necklace thief is hero, says British justice minister

• “I don’t think [Hehir] deserved that.” — Katalin Kaszas, Theft Victim

Irish bus driver who chased necklace thief is hero, says British justice minister

• “Mark Hehir stepped in to protect a passenger and recover her stolen property and, for doing the right thing and putting himself in harm’s way, he lost his job.” — Dr. Kieran Mullan, Tory MP

Thousands of pounds raised for Irish bus driver after ‘shameful and unjust’ sacking for punching thief

• “This outcome sends a deeply troubling message that those who act to protect others will not be supported.” — Dr. Kieran Mullan, Tory MP

Thousands of pounds raised for Irish bus driver after ‘shameful and unjust’ sacking for punching thief

• “Mark’s courage ensured the safety of his passenger and put a wrong right.” — Dr. Kieran Mullan, Tory MP

Thousands of pounds raised for Irish bus driver after ‘shameful and unjust’ sacking for punching thief