Honoring Tim Watson of Fremont

Topics:  Tim Watson, Interstate Highway System

Congressman Eric Swalwell
Congressional Record: 114th Congress
July 14, 2015

(Mr. SWALWELL of California asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute.)

Mr. SWALWELL of California. Madam Speaker, I rise to honor the heroic actions of Tim Watson of Fremont, California.

Last month, Tim, a Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority busdriver, was driving his bus along I-680 when he got an important alert. It said to be on the lookout for a child abducted at the Milpitas library that morning. It also included a description of the suspect and child.

Quickly realizing that they may be on the bus, Tim pulled off the road. He made up a story to the other passengers that he needed to look for a missing backpack so he could go through the bus and get a good look at the suspect and the child without anyone realizing something may be amiss.

After the search, his suspicion increased, and he called the dispatch center. He was told to continue on his route and that police would follow along the way. He drove his bus slowly, going at less than 30 miles per hour, when Fremont police were able to meet the bus and capture the suspect when it stopped at the Fremont BART station.

Madam Speaker, Tim's quick thinking allowed this kidnapping suspect to be apprehended without incident and for the child to be rescued safely.

Thank you, Tim. Your bravery and quick thinking saved a life, held someone to account, and is an inspiration to all of us.