Houston — A tragic shooting on a public transportation bus in Westchase left a young woman dead and another person injured, prompting law enforcement to launch a manhunt for the suspect. The incident occurred Wednesday afternoon around 2:30 p.m. on METRO bus 2611 as it traveled along Richmond Avenue near Beltway 8.
According to authorities, a man boarded the bus and opened fire, seemingly targeting an individual on board. Sadly, the woman, believed to be in her mid-20s, was struck in the head and pronounced dead at the scene. A second victim was also injured, though details regarding their condition remain unclear.
METRO Police Chief Ban Tien urged witnesses who were present during the shooting to come forward. He highlighted the busy afternoon hour, expressing confidence that many people could assist in identifying the suspect. “It was just an innocent female in her mid-20s,” Tien said, emphasizing the senselessness of the violence.
Immediately following the shooting, the bus driver acted swiftly, halting the vehicle and ensuring the safety of all passengers before calling for help. METRO officials reported that the bus was evacuated without further incident.
The suspect remains at large, and police have provided a limited description: a male aged between 17 and 20 years, approximately 6 feet tall, last seen wearing a black hoodie and light gray shorts. Investigators believe he may still be in the vicinity.
As law enforcement combs the area for leads, officers from both METRO police and the Houston Police Department are working diligently, urging the public to stay clear of the scene to facilitate their investigation.
This incident has raised concerns about safety on public transportation in Houston. Eyewitnesses are being asked to share any information, with tips directed to homicide detectives or Crime Stoppers. Authorities continue to prioritize finding the shooter as more updates on the investigation unfold.