MTA Bus Driver Arrested for Allegedly Stabbing Passenger
Cops in Brooklyn slapped the cuffs on an MTA bus driver who allegedly stabbed a passenger during an argument on Friday afternoon.
Incident Details
Law enforcement sources said the driver, 58-year-old Ian Bascombe, got into the dispute with the passenger, 33-year-old Quentin Branch, on board a southbound B41 bus on Flatbush Avenue between Newkirk and Foster Avenues in Flatbush at about 12:19 p.m. on Dec. 13.
Argument Escalates
Sources familiar with the case said the argument stemmed from Branch’s request to depart the bus between stops, which is against MTA policy. When Bascombe rebuffed the request, Branch allegedly went around the plexiglass divider at the front of the bus, then spat on and punched Bascombe in the eye.
Stabbing Incident
Seconds later, police said, Bascombe pulled out a knife and stabbed Branch in the head and left leg.
Arrest and Charges
Officers from the 70th Precinct responded to the incident. EMS rushed Branch to Kings County Hospital, where he was listed in stable condition.
Following an investigation, both Bascombe and Branch were placed under arrest and charged with second- and third-degree assault. Bascombe was hit with an additional criminal possession of a weapon charge, while Branch was also booked for harassment.
MTA Response
Frank Annicaro, senior vice president of MTA New York City Transit, said that Bascombe, a 20-year veteran, has been withheld from service pending an internal review. “Violence on buses puts New Yorkers at risk and is not acceptable,” Annicaro said.
Conclusion
The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining a safe and respectful environment on public transportation. The MTA and law enforcement will continue to work together to ensure that those who commit violent acts are held accountable.
FAQs
Q: What was the cause of the argument between the bus driver and passenger?
A: The argument stemmed from the passenger’s request to depart the bus between stops, which is against MTA policy.
Q: What were the charges filed against the bus driver and passenger?
A: Both Bascombe and Branch were charged with second- and third-degree assault. Bascombe was also charged with criminal possession of a weapon, while Branch was booked for harassment.
Q: What is the status of the bus driver’s employment with the MTA?
A: Bascombe has been withheld from service pending an internal review.
Q: What is the condition of the passenger who was stabbed?
A: The passenger, Quentin Branch, was listed in stable condition at Kings County Hospital.
