Philadelphia’s public transportation system, operated by the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA), has long been a vital lifeline for the city’s residents. Every day, thousands rely on SEPTA’s buses, trains, and trolleys to commute to work, school, and other essential destinations. However, behind the scenes of this indispensable service, transit workers—particularly bus drivers—have faced an alarming and persistent threat: violence and assaults while on duty.
A Troubling History of Violence Against Transit Workers
SEPTA bus drivers and other transit employees have historically been subjected to various forms of violence, from verbal abuse and harassment to physical assaults and, tragically, fatal attacks. Over the years, reports of drivers being punched, spat on, and threatened have become disturbingly common.
One of the most horrific incidents in recent history occurred in October 2023, when Bernard Gribbin, a longtime SEPTA bus driver, was fatally shot by a passenger while operating a Route 23 bus in the Germantown neighborhood. His murder sent shockwaves through the transit community and reignited conversations about the urgent need for enhanced safety measures.
Beyond this tragic event, SEPTA has seen an increase in assaults on operators. Between 2019 and 2020, reports of violence against transit workers nearly quadrupled. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated tensions, with disputes over mask mandates and other safety regulations leading to aggressive encounters between passengers and drivers.
SEPTA’s Evolving Response to Protect Workers
Recognizing the growing danger faced by its employees, SEPTA has consistently taken measures to enhance security on its buses and trains. In previous years, the agency introduced surveillance cameras, increased police presence, and implemented emergency alert systems to deter and respond to violent incidents. While these efforts provided some level of security, it became clear that more needed to be done to prevent direct attacks on drivers.
One of the most significant steps in SEPTA’s ongoing commitment to worker safety came in 2024 with the decision to install bullet-resistant glass enclosures for bus drivers. The move, which aligns with similar initiatives in other major U.S. cities, is designed to provide a secure, cockpit-like barrier that prevents passengers from directly reaching the driver’s seat.
During a demonstration of the new enclosures in early 2025, law enforcement officials tested the durability of the material, firing rounds at the glass to ensure its strength. Tony Ritchie, a business development manager at Custom Glass Solutions—the company manufacturing the enclosures—stated, “The entire barrier—the glass, the door—nobody’s getting through this.”
SEPTA initially launched a trial phase with eight buses equipped with the protective enclosures to assess their effectiveness and gather driver feedback. The $15,000 to $18,000 cost per bus is a small price to pay for the safety and well-being of those who serve the public daily.
A Commendable Commitment to Safety
SEPTA’s proactive approach to ensuring the safety of its workers deserves praise. While transit systems nationwide struggle with similar safety concerns, Philadelphia’s transit authority has shown a willingness to listen to its workforce and take decisive action. The installation of bullet-resistant barriers is a clear acknowledgment that drivers should not have to risk their lives simply for doing their jobs.
John Samuelsen, international president of the Transport Workers Union of America, called the persistent attacks on transit workers “the dirty secret of public transit in America.” With over 20 assaults per week reported in cities like Philadelphia and New York, it is evident that stronger protections are necessary.
SEPTA’s efforts reflect an institution that values its employees and understands that providing a safe work environment is crucial not just for workers, but for the passengers who rely on their services. These safety measures ensure that Philadelphia’s transit workers can focus on their essential roles without fear of violence, contributing to a more secure and efficient public transportation system for all.
As the pilot program for the enclosures progresses, it is expected that more buses will be outfitted with these lifesaving barriers. SEPTA’s commitment to innovation and safety stands as a model for other transit agencies nationwide. In taking these steps, SEPTA sends a clear message: the safety and well-being of its workers are not just priorities—they are imperatives.
