Man Takes City Bus for Joyride in Canada — Even Denies Passenger With an Expired Pass

Canadian police say a man who hopped behind the wheel of an Ontario transit bus for an unexpected joyride managed to drive a full route with around 10 passengers onboard — and did it without leaving “a ding.”

The incident happened Tuesday night after a Hamilton Street Railway driver pulled into a terminal and stepped off for a break. A man then boarded the articulated bus, started it up, and drove away, continuing along the route as if nothing was wrong.

Police say the man even stopped to let passengers on and off, and at one point refused entry to someone attempting to board with an expired pass.

“It’s comical but at the same time it’s serious. We’re thankful nobody was hurt,” Hamilton police spokesperson Trevor McKenna told CBC.

At first, passengers reportedly didn’t realise the driver was an impostor — only when he began making wrong turns did they clue in. Some even gave him directions to keep the bus on track.

Police quietly tailed the vehicle using GPS from the transit authority, keeping sirens off to avoid spooking the driver. After roughly 15 minutes, they safely intercepted the bus and arrested the man without incident.

The suspect, who police say has no fixed address, has been charged with theft and possession over $5,000, obstructing police, and driving while prohibited. He is expected to appear in court to face the charges.

No passengers were injured during the bizarre ride.