A fight broke out on the First bus in Norwich, with a witness describing the scene as “shocking.” The incident occurred in the West Earlham area and ended with one man being arrested. Passengers reported aggressive shouting and swearing, with the violence quickly escalating into a physical altercation. The bus driver instructed passengers to stay downstairs for safety as the fight erupted.
Jess Bates, a passenger on the Orange line 21 service, recalled the bus suddenly shaking during the shouting and described the tense atmosphere onboard. Many passengers were frightened, with some attempting to escape the situation by moving to the lower level of the bus. The altercation resulted in one man receiving facial injuries, leaving him with blood all over his face. Despite the chaotic situation, the bus driver ensured the safety of passengers and allowed them the option of leaving the bus before police arrived on the scene.
The incident unfolded around 9:15 pm outside West Earlham Junior School, attracting the attention of police, who promptly arrived at the scene. A man in his 50s was arrested on suspicion of assault and taken into custody for questioning. Emergency services, including two police cars and two ambulance vehicles, were called to the location as well. First Bus, the transportation company operating the service, emphasized the safety of their customers and their priority to assist the police with their inquiries.
The bus fight left passengers and nearby residents shocked and worried. Oliver Picton, another witness, saw two men involved in the scrap and expressed his concern for the frightened passengers, particularly an older lady who was visibly shaken. The entire incident was described as very shocking by onlookers. The driver’s quick response and assistance from police helped bring the situation under control. Overall, the altercation on the 21 bus left a profound impact on all involved and attracted the attention of local authorities and transport officials.
