Richmond, VA _ GRTC is suspending service beginning Saturday evening, until Monday morning after a Pulse bus was taken over and set on fire during Friday night protests over the Minnesota death of George Floyd. GRTC issued the following statement:
"After resuming regular service Saturday at 9AM, GRTC will suspend service at 8PM and remain closed through Sunday night. Only essential CARE trips, such as for customers on dialysis, will be completed during this timeframe. No CARE vehicles will enter any protest area.
GRTC Chief Executive Officer Julie Timm says, “The safety of our staff and passengers is the most important factor in determining service levels. We can replace property, but we can’t replace people. I also believe it is important for GRTC to make space for people to protest this weekend without endangering our GRTC Family members. We are closely monitoring this evolving situation in Richmond and will only provide service when we determine it is safe.”
No employees or passengers were injured in the protest activity overnight Friday into Saturday, but one total vehicle loss occurred (Pulse bus 2004). Virtual counseling is available to GRTC employees through the Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
Timm adds, “I am deeply proud of the quick action of our operations team last night to protect the lives of our employees and customers. I am especially grateful our Pulse operator is safe and managed a terrifying situation as safely and calmly as possible. I commend them for their professionalism and situational awareness. Today we have Supervisor mobile units focused in the Downtown area to monitor for any potential resurgence of protest activity.”
GRTC plans to begin Monday morning service normally but cautions there may be service delays or changes as conditions warrant. It is also possible GRTC may choose to end service early on Monday evening. Please check back for updates online."
Richmond Police, meanwhile, were asking for information on who might have caused damage during overnight protests, and issued the following statement:
"Last night’s protests began as a peaceful gathering that became violent later in the night.
Richmond police are currently assessing damage and contacting property owners.
There were no arrests and no civilian injuries. One officer received a minor injury and was treated.
If you have information about the individuals who engaged in setting fires, damaging property, or assaulting individuals please call Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000."