Charges against the MTA bus driver who stabbed a passenger have been dropped, according to sources. It has been determined that the passenger was the initial aggressor, and the driver acted in self-defense.
The incident occurred on a Friday afternoon aboard the B41 bus in Flatbush. Police responded to a call at the intersection of Forster Avenue and Flatbush Avenue around 12:19 p.m. They were informed that the bus driver, Ian Bascombe, 58, was involved in a verbal altercation with 33-year-old Quentin Branch.
According to police reports, Bascombe, the MTA employee, displayed a knife during the dispute and stabbed Branch in the head and left leg. The branch was immediately taken to NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County, where he was listed as stable.
Ian Bascombe faces multiple charges, including assault and criminal possession of a weapon. Quentin Branch is also facing assault and harassment charges. The nature of the verbal altercation leading up to the stabbing is not yet known.
An NYC Transit official issued a statement condemning the incident: “Violence on buses puts New Yorkers at risk and is not acceptable. Pending an internal review, this bus operator is being withheld from service.”
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Eliot Pierce is a dedicated writer for ChiefsFocus.com, covering local crime and finance news. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling, Eliot aims to provide his readers with clear and insightful analysis, helping them navigate the complexities of their financial lives while staying informed about important local events. His commitment to delivering accurate and engaging content makes him a valuable resource for the community.