A Cambridge man is facing charges after police say he threatened to kill a Grand River bus driver with a samurai sword.
The incident happened 3 p.m. Saturday afternoon, outside the Ainslie Street bus terminal in Cambridge.
Police arrested the 19-year-old man and confiscated the two and a half foot blade. They say alcohol and drugs were not factors in the incident.
The man has been charged uttering death threats and possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose.
Police say he was already banned from riding the bus, which has many wondering if Grand River Transit can do more to protect drivers.
All buses come with cameras and emergency buttons, but the 19 year old Cambridge man uttered the threats from outside the Ainslie street station.
The union representing 620 GRT members wants parliament hill to push through a bill that would see assaults against drivers punishable by up to five years in prison.
“I don't think the bill by itself will alleviate the problem of danger on the bus, but it will make a stiffer penalty for those who do break the law,” said Union representative Scott Desjardins.
Any driver who is threatened is also offered counselling services.
