Bus commuters in North Lauderdale, Florida were left fleeing for their lives when a row broke out between two passengers over Michael Jackson's death.

James Kiernan, 60, was so moved by the tragic news he received via text message last Thursday, he stood up on the bus and announced it to his fellow passengers.

When the bus driver suggested Jackson should have been in jail a long time ago, Kiernan snapped back that the world had just lost a great talent.

Another passenger, Henry Wideman began swearing and then chased Kiernan down the bus aisle with a knife.

The driver called for assistance and pulled the bus over to wait for authorities.

Wideman was arrested for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon.