MILWAUKEE -- For the first time, a Milwaukee bus driver who was attacked on his route earlier this week spoke to 12 News.

The driver told 12 News reporter Mike Miller that he's shaken up but that he wants to get back behind the wheel.

Extended Interview With Bus Driver In Attack Video Released Of Bus Driver Attacked News Report: Interview With Bus Driver

It all happened so fast, the bus driver said he didn't have time to think about anything except, "Keep the passengers safe."

The attack literally came out of nowhere. A man ran up the steps of the bus and immediately started raining punches on the driver.

Friday, that driver showed no visible signs of the assault. Earl, who doesn't want to use his last name, told Miller he was just trying to keep his passengers safe.

"Oh, absolutely. Yes. You've got a fear factor, but it doesn't take over. At that time, it didn't take over," Earl said.

With eight screaming passengers on board, Earl managed to fend off blows from the masked attacker at nearly 40 mph until he swerved into a tree and the man ran off.

"He did a tremendous job. The average person couldn't have done that -- probably would have covered up and lost control of the bus," Milwaukee County Sheriff David Clarke said.

The sheriff said the bus could easily have crashed into a store or a gas station. But Earl does not consider himself a hero.

"No. Somehow, I wish I could have done more. But at the time when it happens, it's split second and you do the best you can with it," Earl said. "I'm just happy that it ended the way it did, with no major injuries."

Earl said he was shaken up by the attack. But he said most people are "decent," and he's ready to get back in the driver's seat.

Clarke said the man is still on the loose and, if anyone can identify him, to please call the Milwaukee County Sheriff's Department.