Bus driver sacked after chasing thief prompts fundraising and petition

Mark Hehir was dismissed by Metroline after chasing a man who snatched a passenger's necklace; police said his use of force was proportionate and no charges were brought, and supporters have launched a GoFundMe and a petition calling for his reinstatement.

Mark Hehir was dismissed by bus operator Metroline after he chased a man who took a woman's necklace on a 206 bus in June 2024. Police investigated and reported that he had used force that was proportionate and necessary; he was released with no charges. Metroline said he left the bus and brought the company into disrepute, and dismissed him for gross misconduct. He took the dismissal to an employment tribunal, which upheld the company's decision. Key facts: - The incident happened in June 2024 on a London 206 bus, when a passenger's necklace was taken. - Mr Hehir chased the man, struck him once during a confrontation and restrained him until police arrived, reported as roughly half an hour later. - Police concluded the force used was proportionate and no further action was taken against Mr Hehir. - Metroline dismissed him without notice for gross misconduct, citing safety procedures and reputational concerns. - An employment tribunal reviewed the dismissal and upheld Metroline's decision. - Supporters have launched a GoFundMe aiming for £20,000 and a petition started by Shadow Justice Minister Dr Kieran Mullan seeks his reinstatement. Summary: Supporters have raised money and launched a petition after Mr Hehir was dismissed and a tribunal upheld Metroline's decision. Undetermined at this time.