Detectives appealed for witnesses after Sergei Krajev was attacked early on Monday morning. Photograph: Metropolitan PoliceView image in fullscreenDetectives appealed for witnesses after Sergei Krajev was attacked early on Monday morning. Photograph: Metropolitan PoliceMurder inquiry launched after fatal assault on London bus driverPolice say 64-year-old was attacked after confrontation near Battersea Bridge
A murder investigation has been launched after a bus driver died after an assault on Battersea Bridge in London, police said. Sergei Krajev, 64, died in hospital on Tuesday after the incident in the early hours of Monday morning. Police believe he was attacked following a confrontation on the pavement near the bus, which was stationary at the time. Gary Jones, 32, was arrested at the scene.
He was later charged with causing grievous bodily harm and appeared at Wimbledon magistrates court. He has been remanded in custody. Jones will next appear at Kingston crown court on 15 June, the Metropolitan police said. The family of Krajev paid tribute to him, saying: “We feel fortunate to have had such a wonderful husband, father and grandfather in our lives.
“He was a thoughtful, tactful and conscientious person who cared about those around him. “In his role as a bus driver, he was punctual, reliable and willing to help. He valued good relationships with his colleagues and approached his duties with care and dedication. “We are grateful to the police officers, healthcare workers and emergency services involved for their care, professionalism and compassion.
“Our thoughts are also with other public-facing transport workers who may be distressed or alarmed by this news.” DI Sarah Lee, who is leading the investigation, appealed for anyone with information, dashcam or mobile phone footage to come forward.
Lee said: “Our thoughts are with Sergei’s family, friends and colleagues after this tragic incident. “We recognise the concern this will cause within the local community and among those who work across our public transport network.
“We want to reassure those impacted that our officers are working closely with Transport for London as part of our investigation.”
