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Krajev dies after assault
A murder investigation was launched after bus driver Sergei Krajev, 64, died in hospital following an assault on Battersea Bridge in London, police said.
“A murder investigation has been launched after a bus driver died after an assault on Battersea Bridge in London”
Police said Krajev was attacked after a confrontation on the pavement while his bus was stationary at a stop on the south London bridge in the early hours of Monday, and he was found critically injured at about 12.30am.
Gary Jones, 32, was arrested at the scene and later charged with causing grievous bodily harm, after which he was remanded in custody.
Detective Inspector Sarah Lee, who is leading the investigation, said: "Our thoughts are with Sergei’s family, friends and colleagues after this tragic incident."
The Metropolitan Police said Jones will next appear at Kingston crown court on 15 June.
Appeal for footage
Police appealed for anyone with information, dashcam or mobile phone footage to come forward, with Lee saying officers are working closely with Transport for London as part of the investigation.
The Metropolitan Police asked the public to call 101 quoting CAD 174/18May or, to remain anonymous, Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Transport for London director of security, policing and enforcement Siwan Hayward said they are “devastated” by the death of their colleague Mr Krajev and are supporting the police with the investigation.
Hayward said: "We take all forms of violence extremely seriously and remain committed to protecting our staff and customers across the network".
The Independent reported that Krajev was assaulted following a confrontation on the pavement on Battersea Bridge while his bus was parked at a stop shortly before 12.30am on Monday.
Court timeline and charges
Jones appeared at Wimbledon magistrates court after being charged with causing grievous bodily harm, and he was remanded in custody ahead of a later hearing.
“He was later charged with causing grievous bodily harm and appeared at Wimbledon magistrates court”
The Guardian said Jones will next appear at Kingston crown court on 15 June, while The Times also set the next appearance for June 15.
LBC reported that Krajev was taken to hospital by London’s Air Ambulance after being assaulted shortly before 12:30am on Monday, and he died in hospital on Tuesday.
In a tribute, Krajev’s family described him as a “thoughtful, tactful and conscientious person who cared about those around him,” and said he was “punctual, reliable and willing to help.”
The case is framed as a murder investigation by the Metropolitan Police, with Lee telling the public: "We want to reassure those impacted that our officers are working closely with Transport for London as part of our investigation."
