Chicago, Illinois — A violent incident on a city bus in Chicago’s South Side left a passenger dead and the bus driver injured early Monday, authorities said. The shooting occurred on a #29 State Street bus in the Bronzeville neighborhood, escalating from a dispute among passengers.
Around 12:14 a.m., as the bus traveled near 34th Street, an argument between passengers took a tragic turn. According to police reports, one of the individuals involved drew a firearm and shot another passenger in the chest. The bus subsequently veered off the road and struck a curb.
The gunshot victim, a man in his late 20s, was promptly transported to a nearby hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries. The bus driver, who was also shot in the right shoulder during the incident, was taken to a different medical facility. He underwent surgery and is expected to make a full recovery, per union representatives.
Keith Hill, President of ATU Local 241, expressed his concern for the safety of public transit workers. “We don’t come to work to be assaulted or shot at,” Hill stated. He emphasized the ongoing safety concerns among his members and called for the creation of a dedicated police department to better protect transit workers and passengers.
The shooter fled the scene on foot immediately after the bus crashed. Police are actively searching for the suspect and have stated that they will review bus surveillance video to aid in their investigation.
Dorval R. Carter, the president of the Chicago Transportation Authority (CTA), condemned the violence, stating it was “absolutely reprehensible” for any transit worker to be subjected to such dangers while on duty. Carter affirmed the CTA’s stance against gun violence and pledged cooperation with law enforcement to hold those responsible accountable.
“This kind of violence is unacceptable, especially against those serving the public,” Carter added. The CTA is pushing for strict enforcement and potentially enhanced charges against the perpetrator.
The incident has prompted a broader examination of security measures on public transit. While the CTA and city police collaborate on the investigation, discussions about improving safety protocols for bus routes, particularly during late-night hours, are anticipated.
Local detectives in the Chicago Police Department’s Area One are overseeing a homicide investigation related to the incident. As of now, no suspects have been taken into custody. Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward to assist in resolving this case.
The tragedy highlights ongoing issues of safety on public transportation and has sparked calls from both officials and the community for increased security measures to protect both passengers and transit workers.