A French bus driver has died after being beaten by passengers as he asked them to wear masks, AFP noted referring to the family of the driver.

Philippe Monguillot, 59, was beaten in the city of Bayonne last weekend. According to the AFP, he was left brain dead.

Three other people have been charged amid the attack. 

The incident caused outrage in society and a sharp negative reaction of the authorities.

French PM Jean Castex led tributes to Monguillot. "The Republic recognises him as an exemplary citizen and will not forget him. The law will punish the perpetrators of this despicable crime," Castex tweeted.