Assault on MTA bus driver part of so-called 'knockout game'
Yet again!
FLINT, MI – Police say a Mass Transportation Authority bus driver was punched in the face as part of the so-called "knockout game" that's gained national attention.
The "knockout game" has been blamed for attacks in several cities and involves suspects punching strangers for no reason.
The Flint bus incident occurred around 6:40 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 23, when a man was attacked while driving the bus.
The driver suffered several facial injuries, according to police. Another teen filmed the incident as it took place.
Police originally said the incident occurred because one of the suspects was upset about having to pay a bus fare, but further investigation showed it was a planned attack, said Flint police Capt. Collin Birnie.
"This was planned, orchestrated and filmed," he said.
"It's not a game; it's a crime," said Leyton.
The juveniles have been charged with assault with intent to do great bodily harm, he said.
"The driver has serious injuries and we will seek to hold the juveniles accountable," said Leyton.
Ed Benning, MTA general manager, said the driver had to undergo surgery to repair broken bones around the eye as a result of the punch.
Another aggravated assault, a.k.a. "knockout game." This time the victim was the operator of a loaded bus.
It would be wise to study the pattern of these attacks and be ready to deal with the threat.
/fl