Driver forced to escape after Glasgow double decker bus torched by 'two youths'

A probe has been launched after a bus was set alight by two youths on Sunday.

Emergency services were called to Shiskine Drive in Glasgow following reports of a fire engulfing First Bus Service 61 at around 6.58pm.

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service deployed two fire appliances to extinguish the blaze.

First Bus confirmed that two youths started the fire on the top deck and the vehicle was significantly damaged.

At the time of the incident, no other passengers were on the bus and the driver managed to escape the vehicle.

Tony O’Connor, Head of Operations for First Bus in Glasgow, said: “We can confirm a fire was lit by two youths on the upper deck of one of our Service 61 buses in Summerston last night shortly before 7pm.

“The driver became aware of the fire due to the warning alarm system on the bus and swiftly took action, calling the emergency services.

“There were no passengers on the bus at the time and there were no injuries as a result of the incident but the bus was significantly damaged.

“We are currently working closely with the police and assisting them with their investigation.”

Police Scotland has confirmed the incident is being treated as wilful and an investigation is under way.

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Around 7.15pm on Sunday, March 9, 2025, we were called to a report of a fire on a bus in Shiskine Drive, Glasgow.

“Enquiries are ongoing and the fire is being treated as wilful. Anyone with information should contact 101 quoting incident number 3084 of March 9, 2025.”

A Scottish Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson added: “We were alerted at 6.58pm on Sunday, March 9, to reports of a fire within a bus on Shiskine Drive in Glasgow.

“Operations Control mobilised two fire appliances to the scene, and the fire was extinguished.

“There were no casualties, and crews left the scene after ensuring the area was safe.”