2 Passengers Shot to Death on Bus by Miami-Dade Transit Driver Identified

Miami Gardens Police have identified the two victims killed in a shooting on a Miami-Dade Transit bus over the weekend. Lonnie Stephenwade Harley, 44, and Ejaash Bail Carter, 46, were tragically killed in the early hours of Sunday morning. The incident has left the community shocked and prompted an ongoing investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting.

The Shooting Incident

The fatal shooting occurred shortly before 3 a.m. on Sunday in the area of Northwest 7th Avenue and 183rd Street in Miami Gardens. Police reports indicate that the bus driver became involved in a verbal dispute with passengers, which escalated into a deadly confrontation. During the altercation, the driver allegedly fired his weapon, striking both Harley and Carter. Both victims were airlifted to Aventura Hospital but, unfortunately succumbed to their injuries. The bus was carrying other passengers at the time of the shooting, but no additional injuries were reported. The shooting has raised serious questions about safety protocols for public transit workers and the use of firearms during such incidents.

Ongoing Investigation and Police Response

In the wake of the shooting, Miami Gardens Police have initiated an investigation into the events leading up to the tragedy. A brief statement from the police department confirmed the identities of the victims and emphasized that the case requires “careful consideration.” The statement further mentioned that the police are working closely with the State Attorney’s Office (SAO) and will provide updates as more information becomes available. As of now, the bus driver involved in the shooting has been detained for questioning. However, it remains unclear whether formal charges will be filed against the driver. Authorities have stressed the need for a thorough investigation before any conclusions are made.

Actions Taken by Miami-Dade Transit

Miami-Dade’s Department of Transportation (MDT) has responded swiftly to the incident, acknowledging that bus drivers are not permitted to carry firearms while on duty. In a statement issued on Monday, MDT confirmed that the bus operator involved in the shooting has been placed on administrative leave. Furthermore, the department initiated the termination process as per the collective bargaining agreement with the employee union. The department’s statement also reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safety of both passengers and employees and emphasized that the incident does not reflect the standard practices expected from their drivers. The MDT’s swift action to suspend and begin the termination process of the bus driver underscores the seriousness of the incident.

Community and Legal Repercussions

The shooting has left the Miami Gardens community shaken, with residents questioning the safety of public transportation and the protocol for handling disputes on buses. Legal experts suggest that the case could lead to broader discussions about gun access and conflict resolution within public transit systems. As the investigation continues, the families of Harley and Carter are left to cope with their tragic loss, and authorities are under increasing pressure to bring clarity to the circumstances that led to this devastating event. More details are expected as the police and state authorities continue their inquiries into the shooting.