In a shocking and tragic incident in Miami Gardens, Florida, a bus driver opened fire inside a Miami-Dade public transit bus, fatally shooting two passengers early Sunday morning. Authorities are now investigating how a disagreement turned deadly — and how a driver ended up carrying a firearm, despite clear policies against it.
What Happened on the Bus?
According to the Miami Gardens Police Department, the bus driver got into a heated argument with a male passenger who attempted to board the bus with a bicycle — a violation of the transit system’s bike policy, which only allows bikes to be stored on exterior racks.
A witness told WPLG News that the driver believed the bike might be stolen, and refused to let the man on board. The passenger reportedly threatened the driver and reached into his bag, prompting the driver to draw a firearm and fire six shots.
Two people were struck:
- The man with the bicycle
- Another passenger who was not involved in the argument
Both victims were airlifted to a nearby hospital but later died from their injuries.
Bus Drivers Are Not Allowed to Carry Guns
Miami-Dade’s Department of Transportation and Public Works confirmed that drivers are strictly prohibited from carrying firearms while on duty.
“We work to protect our employees from violence, but there is an absolute ban on weapons for drivers,” a department spokesperson said.
The department is cooperating fully with the police investigation.
Who Was the Driver?
Authorities have not yet released the name of the driver, nor have they filed charges as of the latest updates. It remains unclear whether the driver had a concealed carry permit or prior history with law enforcement.
Union Responds to the Tragedy
The Transport Workers Union Local 291, which represents public transit drivers in Miami-Dade County, released a statement expressing deep sorrow:
“We are devastated by these tragic events and extend our deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives. The safety of both our operators and the riding public is — and always will be — our highest priority.”