ATU Local 587 and ATU International Condemn Fatal Stabbing of King County Metro Bus Driver

Union Demands Transit Agency and Elected Officials Better Protect Workers and Riders

Silver Spring, MD - In the wake of the tragic fatal stabbing of King County Metro bus driver Shawn Yim on the job this morning, the Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 587-Seattle, WA, and the ATU International are demanding King County Metro and elected officials provide stronger safety measures for transit workers and riders.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of our Brother Shawn Yim. It is a very sad and difficult day for our members," said Local 587 President/Business Agent Greg Woodfill. "Shawn's tragic murder in the line of duty is unacceptable. Our bus drivers deserve to be able to go to work and come home safely each day. It is long overdue for King County Metro to make real changes to ensure our members and riders are safe on our buses, at bus stops and at transit centers."

The Union has seen an uptick in violence and attacks on workers and riders and has been pushing King County Metro to improve safety on buses including better bus driver shields, more transit police, and other safety measures.

"I want to express our deepest sympathy and heartfelt condolences to Brother Shawn Yim's family and the loved ones of our fallen brother, who was tragically stabbed to death by an angry passenger while bravely doing his job serving the public. Our thoughts and prayers are also with all of our Local 587 members in King County as they deal with this tragedy," said International President John Costa. "The epidemic of violence on King County Metro and transit systems across North America has gotten out of control and must be stopped."

Unfortunately, this brutal killing is not an isolated incident. ATU members have been shot, stabbed, and struck with canes, fire extinguishers, screwdrivers, hammers, and garbage cans. They have been attacked with pepper spray, burned with hot coffee, and doused in urine and spit. Bus drivers have been robbed for pocket change, and have been regularly sexually assaulted.

"Our Union demands that transit agencies and government officials bring the same sense of regret that they will display in the public mourning of this tragic, unnecessary death of our brother and actually do something that will help to prevent these tragedies from happening. Transit workers cannot do their job, and passengers cannot travel on public transportation in fear of being attacked and assaulted," Costa continued.