A bus driver left a 32‑year‑old German‑speaking tourist on a remote forest stop in Kościelisko, Poland, after she attempted to buy a new ticket on December 18.
Incident Details
On the night of Dec. 18, a woman in Kościelisko reported that a bus driver abandoned her on an isolated forest stop after she tried to buy a new ticket. The driver left her there after 10 p.m., so police found her later and escorted her to Zakopane.
Language Barrier
Investigators noted that the tourist only speaks German, which likely caused confusion. She claimed the ticket had expired and she could not convey that she needed a new one, leading the driver to eject her.
Police Response
Responding officers warmed the tourist in a patrol vehicle, provided food, and ensured she could reach the town of Zakopane. They issued a statement emphasizing that the situation could have been avoided with a calm conversation and a translator app.
Advisory Message
The police urged passengers and drivers to use translator tools and to call 112 in case of any disturbing incidents, reminding that such situations should be reported to emergency services.
