Cincinnati Metro Bus Operator Recognized for Coming to Aid of Lost Child

Twenty-six-year Cincinnati Metro Operator Orlando King was recognized by the Southwest Ohio Regional Transit Authority board for his quick thinking in rescuing a child along his route.

King, who was named Cincinnati Metro’s Operator of the Year in 2015, spotted a young child wandering alone shortly before noon on Nov. 2 near the intersection of Queen City Avenue and Quebec Road, in the Fairmount area. King brought the child on board his bus and called for assistance.

“I’m just glad I was there,” King said, adding that there were no adults in the vicinity when he spotted the girl, something that struck him as concerning given her age. “As a parent, I couldn’t leave her out there.”

“Metro operators know the communities they serve and often can tell when something isn’t right,” said Cincinnati Metro CEO & General Manager Dwight A. Ferrell. “Orlando’s quick thinking and actions that kept the child safe deserve all the praise in the world for averting what could have become a tragic situation along a busy road.”

King was presented with a CEO S.T.A.R. Award at the SORTA board meeting.

The CEO S.T.A.R. Award, for “Service That Attracts Recognition,” is a selective award presented by, and at the sole discretion of Metro’s CEO. The award acknowledges and rewards employees who demonstrate exemplary service to Metro and the community.