September 19, 2025

Milwaukee Bus Driver Rescues Missing Child

here-intlog
September 19, 2025
6:32 am
Milwaukee

News Summary

A Milwaukee bus driver, Keyon Finkley, successfully intervened in two critical incidents involving children. He rescued a missing 10-year-old girl and prevented a young boy from running into traffic. Finkley’s prompt actions highlight the vital role bus drivers play in community safety. MCTS has praised Finkley and emphasized the importance of drivers acting as guardians for children in their neighborhoods.

Milwaukee, WI – A Milwaukee bus driver played a crucial role in the rescue of a 10-year-old girl, who was reported as “critically missing,” on July 8. Keyon Finkley, a driver with four years of experience at the Milwaukee County Transit System (MCTS), recognized the girl from a missing person report he had encountered earlier in the day. Upon noticing her entering his bus unaccompanied and without money for fare, Finkley promptly alerted MCTS dispatch, stating he had recognized the missing child. After notifying authorities, police officers arrived to escort the girl off the bus.

While details about the girl and the circumstances surrounding her disappearance remain limited, her safe return has garnered appreciation for the quick actions of Finkley and the police. MCTS has noted that this incident marks the 14th instance in recent years in which one of their drivers helped rescue a lost or missing child.

In a separate, concerning incident reported on Capitol Drive, Finkley spotted a young boy who appeared to be in distress, attempting to run into oncoming traffic. Describing the moment as alarming, Finkley rushed to intervene, fearing for the boy’s safety. The child was found barefoot and clad only in a pajama shirt, raising immediate worries about his well-being. Finkley stopped his bus and swiftly ran out to prevent the boy from entering the busy road. He called dispatch to report the situation, and law enforcement agents arrived shortly after to ensure the boy’s safety.

Capitol Drive has been noted as one of Milwaukee’s most hazardous streets, making Finkley’s quick thinking all the more critical in preventing a potential tragedy. His actions in both incidents have led to praise from the MCTS for demonstrating vigilance and commitment to the safety of the community. Finkley expressed a sense of responsibility to protect the children he encounters in his role, highlighting the importance of bus drivers as community guardians.

In recent years, the MCTS has emphasized the importance of their drivers acting as the eyes and ears of the neighborhoods they service. Each rescue serves as a reminder of their unique position to observe and assist individuals in need. In another noteworthy case this past May, a different driver, Jasper G., assisted a child found alone at a bus stop near 35th and Capitol.

The underlying commonality in these incidents showcases the critical response drivers like Finkley exhibit during emergencies. MCTS maintains that their drivers are vital in helping to safeguard children and the community, demonstrating a proactive approach to facilitating safety in public transportation settings.

Overall, the recent events involving Finkley and MCTS drivers reveal the critical role that public transit personnel can play in community safety, particularly when it comes to protecting children at risk.