Since April, there have been at least ten violent crimes that have taken place in Tucson’s Sun Tran buses- including stabbings, shootings, assaults, and more. What was once meant to be a convenient, safe way to get around town, has now become a dangerous and unsettling place for many, yet the city continues to offer public transportation for free and does not offer any solutions for these threats and dangers. Instead of being free for all, it should only be free for students, senior citizens, and low-income workers who meet specific requirements- those who really need it the most.
Free transportation was meant to make it easier for everyone to get around, but it has also opened the door to serious safety issues. The crimes have become extremely frequent, causing bus drivers and riders to feel unsafe every time they step into the bus. On September 9th, 2025, a Sun Tran bus driver was assaulted. Police say the suspect threw rocks at the driver and then fled the area on a different bus. In another instance, a driver was hit over the head with a fire extinguisher, causing her not to be able to return to work for over a year. Hector, another Sun Tran driver, says, “Our ridership now consists of many people that just go from bus stop to bus stop, whether it’s, you know, doing drugs, drinking on the bus. That’s all they do is ride along all day and night.” Sun Tran drivers are demanding a change, which is completely reasonable.
The bus used to be a safer and easier way to get around town, back when it wasn’t free for everyone. Nicole Perez, a public transit user, shared her experience with public transportation. “I remember when it used to be a relief getting on the bus after walking alone on the streets.” Nicole was a high schooler when she was waiting at a bus stop, and a homeless man approached her and began to harass her. “I remember being so scared, waiting for the bus to get there so I could get away from him.” As soon as the bus arrived, she jumped on and felt relieved to be in what used to be a safe place for students. Had that happened today, the man could have easily followed her onto the bus.
On October 14th, 2025, a shooting occurred on a bus near Irvington and 13th Avenue. The victim got into an argument with the suspect, which resulted in a fight. When the bus driver stopped the bus, the suspect shot at the victim but missed. The shooting is still being investigated, and the suspect has not been found.
These stories prove that when something becomes free, people may stop valuing it and begin to abuse these privileges. Tucson should have a system to keep everyone protected. Students, senior citizens, and low-income workers should qualify for free or reduced fees. This way, everyone remains safe and sound.
