Hero bus driver sacked for chasing thief as 5,000 sign petition for justice | UK | News
The sacking of a London bus driver who chased and restrained a thief has sparked a public outcry and led to a petition with more than 5,000 signatures. petition Deputy Dr. called for the driver to be reinstated or to be paid fair compensation. Started by Kieran Mullan.
Mark Hehir was sacked from his job as a bus driver in North West London in June 2024 after chasing and subduing a mugger who stole a passenger’s necklace. Mr Hehir restrained the man for half an hour until police arrived and arrested them both, but he was later released and told no further action would be taken.
Police said Mr Hehir “used force that was proportionate and necessary in the circumstances to defend himself and the female passenger”.
Despite his bravery, Mr Hehir was dismissed by the Metroline bus company. One of the company’s concerns was that the robber was a “customer.” A court in Watford later upheld the dismissal.
Dr Mullan has been vocal in defending Mr Hehir and encouraging public support. He said: “It’s difficult to act quickly to help people in moments like these, and even trained professionals can make mistakes. But when so many look the other way, people doing the right thing for the right reasons need our support, not the rule book thrown at them.”
The MP added: “As an MP I can’t make a company act differently, but with public support we can shame them into doing the right thing. Mark’s bravery ensured the safety of his passenger and righted the wrong. Sign this petition if you agree Mark’s dismissal was shameful and unfair and Metroline should reinstate or compensate him.”
Mr Hehir’s case attracted widespread attention, with thousands of people signing a petition demanding Metroline reconsider its decision. Supporters criticized the company for treating the thief as a “customer” and punished Mr. Hehir for acting to protect the public.
The court’s decision sparked debate about the balance between workplace rules and common sense intervention.
Legal experts note that employment tribunals often respect the employer’s decision even in cases where police support an employee’s actions. However, public campaigns may influence companies to offer settlements or reconsider disciplinary consequences.
The growing support for the petition reflects widespread sympathy for Mr Hehir’s actions and anger at what many see as unfair dismissal.
Advocates argue that punishing staff who intervene to prevent harm can deter employees from intervening in dangerous situations in the future.
Tory Dr. Mullan called on the public to continue supporting the petition, emphasizing that it was a way to publicly support heroism and hold companies accountable: “The overwhelming response to this petition shows that the public recognizes heroism when it sees it and expects companies to do the right thing.”
By January 2026, the petition had surpassed 5,000 signatures, highlighting a wave of public support for Hehir and criticism of Metroline’s decision.
Express.co.uk has contacted Metroline for comment.
