A local bus journey through the streets of Liverpool took a terrifying turn in October 1961 when passengers reportedly fell into a trance-like state after a masked figure boarded the bus and commanded them to sleep. The driver had followed a diversion sign that later vanished without a trace. Witnesses described nine figures in black robes approaching the vehicle, with one figure entering through a closed door and placing passengers under a spell.

The incident occurred when Doug, a 22-year-old bus driver covering a colleague's shift on the number 79 route, encountered an unexpected diversion sign instructing him to turn onto Prince Alfred Road. As the journey continued, the bus reportedly stalled, and a masked figure in black robes with eyeholes addressed the passengers: "Don't attempt to leave. You are all under my power." The conductor, Cyril, appeared immediately affected, while a 16-year-old girl named Kathy escaped through an open door and ran to find a police officer. When police arrived, the remaining passengers were described as sitting quietly with blank expressions. Officials confirmed no diversion signs were present along the route, and those involved reportedly had limited recollection of the events once they regained awareness.

Investigators have proposed several explanations, including mass hysteria, a deliberate prank, mechanical issues, or even accidental exposure to a sedative, though no evidence of such was recorded at the time. This case remains one of Liverpool's most bizarre unsolved mysteries.

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