by San Diego, CA – A San Diego jury awarded $8.5 million to the family of Anthony McGaff, a 28-year-old man who tragically died after being placed in a chokehold on a Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) bus. The incident occurred on April 30, 2022, igniting significant legal and community attention over transit safety and the responsibilities of bus operators during emergencies.
The jury found that MTS bore 40% responsibility for McGaff’s death, while three other passengers, including Edward Hilbert who restrained McGaff, were assigned the remaining 60% fault. The civil lawsuit highlighted that the MTS bus driver failed to act decisively by not pulling over during the deadly altercation.
The Fatal Incident Aboard the Bus
The disturbing event unfolded when Anthony McGaff was involved in an altercation initiated after he grabbed and threw a woman’s cellphone to the ground as she recorded the bus scene. Surveillance footage showed McGaff seizing another phone, escalating tensions.
- Edward Hilbert and other passengers forcibly restrained McGaff, with Hilbert placing him in a chokehold for more than eight minutes.
- McGaff became unconscious and was later pronounced dead at a hospital.
“This is what I’ve always wanted. It’s justice for my son and he deserved it,” said Angela McGaff, Anthony’s mother, after the verdict.
Legal Outcome and Jury Verdict
Hilbert initially faced murder charges but pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter and received a sentence of two years probation. Meanwhile, the civil trial revealed fault not only with the passengers but with MTS for alleged negligence by the bus driver.
MTS maintained the bus was on the freeway during the incident and followed protocol by proceeding to the nearest bus stop. They also argued the driver was unaware McGaff was in mortal danger.
MTS stated, “Our agency remains steadfast in our commitment to providing a safe transit environment for everyone who rides with us.”
They emphasized ongoing efforts with law enforcement and their Bus Enforcement Special Team to enhance rider safety.
Implications for Public Transit Safety
The jury’s decision highlights critical concerns about safety protocols on public buses and the role of transit employees in emergencies. Key takeaways from this case include:
- Responsibility of transit authorities to intervene during onboard violence.
- Importance of training bus drivers to recognize and respond to life-threatening situations.
- The impact of swift action in preventing fatalities during public transit altercations.
For more detailed coverage on the incident and the lawsuit, you can visit the full report on NBC San Diego.
What Do You Think?
As this case sets a precedent for accountability in public transit safety, what measures do you believe should be adopted to protect passengers and improve emergency responses? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
