Winnipeg Transit operators have been directed not to display a memorial message on their buses marking two years since the death of driver Irvine Jubal Fraser.



Drivers have been advised not to use the sign which displays “In Memory #521” on city buses. 521 was Fraser’s badge number.



Fraser was killed on the job in the early morning hours of Valentine’s Day two years ago after being stabbed multiple times.



The notification comes less than two weeks following the conclusion of a criminal trial in the matter.



Brian Kyle Thomas, 24, was found guilty by a jury of second-degree murder on Jan. 31. The offence carries an automatic life sentence with no chance of parole for between 10 and 25 years. A judge will determine when Thomas will become eligible for parole.

“Rest In Peace #521” messages were displayed on buses on the day of Fraser’s funeral on Feb. 21, 2017.

The electric bus signs were also programmed to display a memorial message marking Fraser’s death last year.

On Feb.14, 2018 the scrolling message read: “In memory #521.”

A spokesperson for Winnipeg Transit said in an emailed statement it advised the Amalgamated Transit Union the second anniversary of Fraser’s death would be marked by sending a message to staff acknowledging the significance of the day and offering support.

“February 14, 2019, marks two years since Irvine ‘Jubal’ Fraser tragically lost his life while on duty as a City of Winnipeg bus operator,” the statement reads. “There is no doubt that his death has had a profound and lasting impact on all of us. Our thoughts are with Mr. Fraser’s loved ones today. We are committed to supporting our employees and moving forward in a positive way.”

The city also added: “As an organization, the City of Winnipeg marks the Day of Mourning on April 28 where we are able to acknowledge and remember every employee at the City who lost their life as a result of performing their work.”

Fraser’s death has sparked calls for increased safety measures to be put in place for drivers.



City council has approved a plan to install safety shields on all 630 buses.

In 2018, audio and video surveillance systems on buses were expanded to include more cameras and additional transit inspectors were hired.

The city has also implemented a transit safety campaign to report undesirable behaviour, a pilot training program for operators and supervisors delivered by the Main Street Project and is reviewing a call to have members of the Bear Clan ride buses to add an extra level of security.