A 23-year-old Winnipeg man, Diego Porteous-Jelders, was arrested on June 14, 2025, after assaulting two Winnipeg Transit supervisors during a wellness check on a city bus in downtown Winnipeg. The incident occurred around 5:34 p.m. near Fort Street and Graham Avenue when the supervisors attempted to wake the man who was asleep onboard. Both supervisors, who have special constable status under Manitoba law, suffered minor injuries. Porteous-Jelders now faces two counts of assaulting a peace officer as the investigation continues, highlighting ongoing concerns about safety on Winnipeg’s public transit system.
Incident Details and Timeline
The incident took place on the evening of June 14, 2025, at approximately 5:34 p.m. near the intersection of Fort Street and Graham Avenue in downtown Winnipeg. Diego Porteous-Jelders was found asleep on a Winnipeg Transit bus by two transit supervisors conducting a routine wellness check. When the supervisors attempted to wake him, the situation escalated, resulting in an assault on both supervisors.
Injuries and Legal Status
Both transit supervisors hold special constable status under Manitoba law, granting them certain law enforcement authorities. As a result of the assault, they sustained minor injuries requiring medical attention but were not hospitalized. Porteous-Jelders was apprehended at the scene and subsequently detained. He faces two counts of assaulting a peace officer, a charge that carries significant legal consequences under provincial statutes.
Implications for Transit Safety
This incident underscores ongoing safety concerns within Winnipeg’s public transit system. Authorities and transit officials have increasingly emphasized the importance of protecting staff members who regularly interact with passengers in potentially vulnerable situations. The Winnipeg Transit system has been reviewing security protocols and consideration is being given to increasing support and resources for employees conducting wellness checks.
Ongoing Investigation
Police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the assault, including the events leading up to and during the interaction. No further details regarding Porteous-Jelders’ condition at the time of the incident or potential underlying factors have been released. Updates will be provided as the situation develops and more information becomes available.
Community Response
Local community members and transit users have expressed concern about both passenger and employee safety on public transportation. Winnipeg Transit has reiterated its commitment to maintaining a secure environment for all patrons and staff, encouraging cooperation with law enforcement and adherence to safety guidelines.
The arrest of Diego Porteous-Jelders following the assault on two Winnipeg Transit supervisors highlights critical issues concerning safety on public transportation in Winnipeg. While the supervisors sustained only minor injuries, the incident has prompted renewed focus on protective measures for transit employees performing wellness checks and engaging with passengers. Authorities continue to investigate the matter, with additional information expected as the case develops. The event serves as a reminder of the challenges faced in maintaining secure and supportive environments for both transit workers and passengers, underscoring the need for ongoing vigilance and enhanced safety protocols within the Winnipeg Transit system.
