INTERNEWSTIMES.COM
A harrowing bus hijacking in Los Angeles ended in tragedy early Wednesday morning, leaving one man dead and the alleged perpetrator facing murder charges.
The incident began around 12:46 a.m. when police received reports of a disturbance on a Metro bus near Manchester Street and Figueroa Street. Upon arriving at the scene, officers found passengers fleeing the bus and seeking help. They learned that the bus had been hijacked by an armed suspect, later identified as Lamont Campbell, a 51-year-old resident of Los Angeles.
Campbell, armed with a semi-automatic handgun, had taken control of the bus, instructing the driver not to stop. Despite police attempts to stop the vehicle, Campbell continued driving, leading officers on an hourlong chase through the city.
The pursuit finally ended at 6th Street and Alameda Boulevard after police deployed spike strips, deflating several of the bus’s tires. SWAT personnel then entered the bus and apprehended Campbell without further incident.
Tragically, officers discovered a victim inside the bus suffering from gunshot wounds. The victim, a 48-year-old Hispanic man, was transported to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead.
While police have not yet released a motive for the crime, Campbell has been charged with murder and is currently being held at the 77th Area Jail on a $2 million bail. The investigation into the incident is ongoing. (Red)
