Bus driver hailed a hero after attack

A BUS driver has been hailed a hero after bringing a bus to a safe halt after a terrifying stone attack.

The driver suffered severe injuries after a stone, thrown at his vehicle as he drove through the Mayfield suburb of Cork city, came through an open window and struck him in the face.

There were several passengers on board the bus at the time. Despite his injuries, the driver of the No 8 bus managed to bring his vehicle to a stop. Several passengers rushed to his aid as blood flowed from his face.

The driver of a following bus also came to his assistance before gardaí and emergency services arrived. The injured driver was taken to hospital where he received several stitches to his facial wounds. He has been recovering at home since the incident in the Lotabeg area of Mayfield on Saturday afternoon. Bus Éireann area manager Joe Fitzgerald praised the driver for his skill in maintaining control of the bus. “He was tremendous. I would like to praise him for the skill and commitment he showed on the day to make sure no-one on the bus was injured,” Mr Fitzgerald said.

As a result, Bus Éireann has curtailed the No 8 service to the city’s northside. The bus is now travelling as far as Mayfield Garda Station and is avoiding its terminus in Lotabeg. Mr Fitzgerald said he hopes the full No 8 service will resume in the coming days.

It is understood gardaí are aware of the identity of the person responsible for the stone throwing, who could be as young as 11.