Hennepin County Jail Booking Photo
Published: October 22nd 2026.
MINNEAPOLIS: - A 26-year-old man is facing multiple charges after allegedly punching a Metro Transit police officer in the face during a fare dispute aboard a bus in Minneapolis on Wednesday, October 21, 2026.
According to a criminal complaint filed in Hennepin County, Samuel Clive Gillespie has been charged with gross misdemeanor fourth-degree assault of a peace officer and two misdemeanor counts of disorderly conduct.
The incident occurred at approximately 6:25 a.m. near Chicago Avenue and Lake Street, where a Metro Transit police officer responded to a report of fare evasion.
According to the complaint, two Metro Transit TRIP agents informed the responding officer that two individuals aboard the bus had refused to provide proof of fare payment and would not leave the bus.
One individual agreed to exit after speaking with the officer. However, Gillespie allegedly became agitated when informed that he needed to pay his fare or leave the bus.
Prosecutors allege Gillespie pointed a spray bottle toward the officer, who instructed him to put it away and warned that he could be arrested if he refused to exit. The complaint states that the bus was unable to continue its route because of the situation, with other passengers still aboard.
Gillespie allegedly refused to leave and stood up while holding onto the overhead rails. After being informed that he was under arrest, he gathered his belongings and attempted to exit the bus.
While leaving, Gillespie allegedly attempted to spray the officer with the bottle, prompting the officer to turn away.
Once outside, Gillespie reportedly attempted to walk away despite being informed that he was not free to leave.
According to the complaint, when the officer attempted to stop him, Gillespie punched the officer in the face, causing the officer to bleed.
Gillespie was subsequently placed in handcuffs and arrested.
The fourth-degree assault charge carries a maximum penalty of 364 days in jail and a $3,000 fine. Each disorderly conduct charge carries a maximum penalty of 90 days in jail or a $1,000 fine, or both.
The allegations outlined in the criminal complaint have not been proven in court. Gillespie is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.