Chicago, IL - CTA Bus Driver Stabbed in the Hand by Daniel Pelt in Lincoln Park

Public Transit Bus Driver Stabbed In Hand By Passenger

WGN9 has reported that a CTA bus driver was stabbed near Lincoln Park near the 300 block of W. North Ave in Chicago, IL 60610. 

On the evening of Friday, November 26., 2021, 63-year-old Daniel Pelt is said to have stabbed the bus driver in the had during a bus ride. The bus was heading eastbound on West North Avenue, and police were able to arrest Pelt near the 1500 block of North Hudson. The driver was taken to the hospital for medical treatment. 

Pelt is facing charges of one felony count of aggravated battery of a transit employee in addition to one felony count of aggravated battery with the use of a deadly weapon. 

Can I Sue For Being Stabbed on Public Transit? 

Attorney contributor Brian Kent represents victims of violent crimes, like stabbings, in civil lawsuits. Brian has offered to share some legal options available to victims stabbed on public transit. 

"Each state has laws in place to protect victims of violent crime. Property owners, including public transit, have a legal obligation to provide an adequate level of security for their passengers and employees. Transit boards should implement these security measures to reduce the risk of preventable violence, such as stabbings and shootings. These measures may include video surveillance, partitions separating drivers from passengers, and sufficient interior lighting. If the transit authorities do not take security measures seriously, they can be found negligent if a civil case is filed against them."

"If violent incidents were occurring more frequently, the authorities would be responsible for increasing the measures for safety on the public transit system. A violent crime attorney should be able to prove the property owner was negligent in providing this safety. Additionally, the court can decide if any damages sustained from the crime should be awarded to the victim."

Sources:

WGN9