CCTV evidence played at the tribunal showed the thief throwing a punch at Hehir, although Metroline stated it thought the thief had come back to the bus “with the clear intention to apologise and shake hands”.
Both men were arrested following the altercation in Harlesden but Hehir, who said he acted in self-defence, was later released and told he would not face further police action.
The Met Police told the hearing that Hehir’s response had been “proportionate and necessary in the circumstances”.
The day after the incident, on 25 June 2024, Hehir, who is originally from County Limerick and now lives in Wembley, was suspended from duty and told to attend an investigation. He was later dismissed.
