The Metropolitan Police have launched a murder investigation following the death of a bus driver who was reportedly assaulted on Battersea Bridge. Police were called at 00:33hrs on Monday 18 May following reports of the incident.
Officers performed emergency first aid and the Transport for London bus driver, a 64-year-old man, was taken to hospital by London’s Air Ambulance.
The driver, who can now be named as Sergei Krajev, died on Tuesday. His family are being supported by specialist officers.
Gary Jones of Hospital Bridge Road, Twickenham, was arrested at the scene. Later that day, he was charged with causing grievous bodily harm, appeared at Wimbledon Magistrates’ Court and was remanded in custody.
Jones will next appear at Kingston Crown Court on Monday, 15 June.
Detective Inspector Sarah Lee, who is leading the investigation, said:
“Our thoughts are with Sergei’s family, friends and colleagues after this tragic incident. We recognise the concern this will cause within the local community and among those who work across our public transport network. We want to reassure those impacted that our officers are working closely with Transport for London as part of our investigation.
“This incident took place on one of London’s busiest bridges and we are continuing to appeal for anyone with information to come forward. If you have dashcam or mobile phone footage of what happened, it is important that we see it.”
In a tribute, Sergei’s family said:
“We feel fortunate to have had such a wonderful husband, father, and grandfather in our lives. He was a thoughtful, tactful, and conscientious person who cared about those around him.
“In his role as a bus driver, he was punctual, reliable and willing to help. He valued good relationships with his colleagues and approached his duties with care and dedication.
“We are grateful to the police officers, healthcare workers and emergency services involved for their care, professionalism and compassion. Our thoughts are also with other public-facing transport workers who may be distressed or alarmed by this news.”
Unite the union has today sent it condolences.
General secretary Sharon Graham said:
“Our thoughts go out to Sergei Krajev’s family. A father, husband and grandfather, who went out to work and did not come home.
“TfL needs to take immediate action to ensure the safety of all bus workers. No bus worker should be subjected to violence whilst carrying out their duties. TfL and the bus companies must now swiftly introduce training for drivers on how to respond and deal with violent confrontations.”
(Picture: Supplied by Metropolitan Police)
