Friday, Oct. 18, Operator Darnell Barton, Frontier Station, drove the 20 Elmwood when he saw a young lady perched outside the railing over the Scajaquada Expressway. “It didn't seem real because what was going on around, traffic and pedestrians were going by as normal,” said Barton. He pulled up alongside, opened his doors and asked the woman if she was OK.

She didn't answer. Darnell could tell she was distraught so he got out of the bus and approached her. He took her arm and asked her if she wanted to come back to the other side of the guardrail. She spoke for the first time, answering “Yes.”

They sat on the sidewalk and talked for a few minutes. They were eventually joined by two other good Samaritans and the Buffalo Police. Approximately 20 students from McKinley High School sat on the bus through the incident, without causing any additional incidents themselves. They gave Darnell a round of applause when he returned to bus. Then he went about finishing his route.

Kimberley A. Minkel, NFTA Executive Director said, “We are all extremely proud of Darnell’s heroic actions. His quick and calm response during a very stressful situation speaks volumes about his character and his unwavering willingness to help someone in need.” 

Darnell’s nickname is 'Big Country', which he may now have given a new meaning. Darnell’s huge heart, large embrace and deep understanding are all part of his, personal big country. Metro is lucky to have him on board.

“I feel like I did what I was supposed to do at the time. I'm a football guy so when you sit the bench and the coach calls your number, you got to go in there make a play, do what the play calls for, and I think that's what I did.”