Armed Man Hijacks SARTA Bus in Ohio, Threatening Passengers

Suspect Donte Hill arrested on charges including kidnapping and weapon violations

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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A 47-year-old Canton, Ohio man named Donte Hill has been arrested after allegedly taking over a SARTA bus at gunpoint, threatening the driver and passengers before police intervened and apprehended him.

Why it matters

Incidents of public transit hijackings and hostage situations are extremely rare but deeply concerning for passenger safety and public confidence in local transportation systems. This case highlights the need for enhanced security measures and emergency response protocols on public buses.

The details

According to police, Donte Hill boarded a SARTA bus in Canton and displayed a gun, threatening the driver and passengers. He refused to let anyone exit the bus until it reached his desired location. The driver, fearing for the safety of all on board, did not activate the bus's panic button. Hill eventually left the bus, at which point police arrested him and recovered a semi-automatic handgun.

  • The incident occurred on Monday, February 17, 2026.

The players

Donte Hill

A 47-year-old Canton, Ohio resident who was arrested and charged with kidnapping, having a weapon under disability, abduction, receiving stolen property, aggravated menacing, and probation violation.

SARTA

The Stark Area Regional Transit Authority, the public transportation system serving Canton, Ohio and surrounding areas.

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What they’re saying

“Incidents like this are extremely rare but deeply concerning for passenger safety and public confidence in local transportation systems.”

— Spokesperson, SARTA

What’s next

A judge has set Donte Hill's bond at $500,000. He will remain in custody as the case proceeds through the criminal justice system.

The takeaway

This case highlights the need for enhanced security measures and emergency response protocols on public transit systems to protect passengers in the rare event of a hijacking or other threat to public safety.