Pausing to remember beloved Drivers who lost their lives on the job, and the families they left behind

Michael Ryan and his wife Linda. Photo: The Ryan Family

The letter below was written by Linda Ryan, wife of Taxi driver Michael Ryan, who was killed on the job a year ago. Taxi News sadly publishes Linda’s letter in tribute to Michael, who was beloved by many people; and also in gratitude to the many Drivers who lost their lives on the job in years past. There is simply no way for consumers to thank them, or sufficient condolences to offer their bereft families. God bless you all.

*****

“My name is Linda Ryan, I am the wife of Michael Anthony Ryan, who was a proud wheelchair accessible van driver for BlueLine Taxi.

Michael was shot and killed by a passenger, on January 21, 2022.

There was no reason for his death, he had only $150 cash on him, and was not being robbed.

The Accused was on drugs, and also had drugs in his possession.

Michael’s death was senseless, without reason, and extremely sad.  It left his family devastated.

He was such a very kind mind, who would do anything for anyone, who was loved by so many people.

He left behind two beautiful children, twins, Davis and Jacqueline Ryan, age 20, and his wife Linda.

As his wife, I would like to thank you from the bottom of my heart for the beautiful article you wrote about him.

For your information, a Preliminary Hearing in this case will be held at the Oshawa Courthouse on January 3, 4, 5, 6.

The purpose of the Preliminary Hearing is twofold. 

Firstly, all the evidence will be provided for the Judge to review, who will then determine if there is enough evidence to proceed to a Trial.

Secondly, the Crown Attorney and Counsel for the Accused will make legal arguments as to whether the charge against the Accused should be 1st degree murder or 2nd degree murder.

Initially the Accused was charged with 2nd degree murder, but this was later upgraded to 1st degree murder.

The Judge will decide at this Preliminary Hearing, if the 1st degree murder charge will remain.

The Preliminary Hearing is open to the Public.  

As his wife, I will attend, together with my sister, and also a Representative from Victim Services who will be there to support me.

Our children, Davis and Jacqueline, have decided that they will not attend, they cannot bear it.

If there is enough evidence, we have been advised by the Crown Attorney, that a trial will proceed, and that such trial will likely be booked for one (1) year in the future.

I would appreciate that this matter be reported.

It seems that SO many cab drivers have been murdered in the past, and not enough attention has been given to these tragedies in the public forum.

Michael was a “front-line” worker, he primarily transported the elderly and the sick. 

He was much loved by his clientele.

Often, he was specifically asked to drive a ‘Covid positive’ patient to the hospital, and he never said ‘no.’ 

Michael was a man with a big heart, his death devastated us as a family, and we still cannot believe he is gone.

Thank you so much for your kind consideration.

God Bless.”

Linda Ryan