A man has been arrested nearly nine years after an incident in which he allegedly pushed a woman into the path of a bus on Putney Bridge in west London. The 44-year-old suspect was apprehended on 15 June, with Metropolitan Police stating that the arrest was connected to a case of attempted grievous bodily harm that occurred on 5 May 2017.
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On that spring morning, CCTV footage captured the shocking moment when the victim, then aged 33, was pushed by the man while walking. The footage, later showcased on platforms including the London Evening Standard’s YouTube channel, revealed the woman stumbling into the path of an oncoming red double-decker bus. Fortunately, the bus driver swiftly swerved to avoid a devastating collision, narrowly preventing what could have been a tragic outcome.
The immediate aftermath of the incident was alarming; the woman was seen falling to the ground, her head perilously close to the bus’s tyre. Despite the terrifying situation, she only sustained minor injuries, thanks in large part to the rapid response of the driver. Oliver Salbris, who was behind the wheel at the time, later recounted how the incident could have had dire consequences. He stated, “If I hadn’t swerved, I would have smashed her head. It was reflex and I would say thanks to God.”
Salbris expressed his concern for the woman, stepping out of the bus to offer assistance. However, she was reportedly in shock and unable to speak. In a bid to help, he provided her with his contact information, so she could reach out if needed.
In the months and years following the incident, the man responsible remained unidentified, earning him the media nickname “Putney Pusher.” Reports indicate that he was dressed in a grey T-shirt and navy shorts at the time. Notably, he was seen returning across the bridge approximately 15 minutes after the push, which suggests he had been aware of the chaos he caused.
The Metropolitan Police did not reveal the identity of the suspect following his arrest, but according to reports in British newspapers, he is believed to be a wealthy banker with alleged connections to a royal family. Police have stated that he is currently out on bail while investigations continue regarding various offences, including a separate allegation of drug possession.
The remarkable nature of the event and its implications have been a source of public interest over the years. The incident even inspired a theatrical production titled “Once Upon a Bridge,” penned by Sonya Kelly, which made its debut in 2024. This adaptation is widely seen as an attempt to bring attention to the seriousness of such actions and to encourage potential witnesses to come forward with any relevant information.
Given the gravity of the situation during the initial incident, it is a relief that the woman involved was able to walk away with only slight injuries. However, the psychological impact of such an experience can be profound and long-lasting. The arrest of the suspect may bring a sense of closure to the victim and allow for the opportunity for justice to be served.
As the investigation unfolds, it serves as a reminder of the need for safety and vigilance in public spaces. Authorities continue to urge witnesses to share any information they may have, highlighting the collaborative effort needed to ensure community safety and accountability.