One Dead as Hijacked Bus Speeding Through LA Holds Driver at Gunpoint

In a shocking incident, a Los Angeles Metropolitan Transportation Authority bus was hijacked earlier today, resulting in the death of at least one passenger. The driver was held at gunpoint and forced to drive before police intervened and apprehended the suspect.

The situation began unfolding around 12:45 a.m. when the Los Angeles Police Department received reports of a disturbance on the bus near Manchester Street and Figueroa Street in southern Los Angeles. According to Deputy Chief Donald Graham, initial information suggested a potential assault was taking place. Officers later found the bus stationary at the intersection of 117th Street and Figueroa Street.

As LAPD officers attempted to establish contact with those on board, the bus unexpectedly began moving away from the scene. This prompted an hour-long pursuit through the downtown area of Los Angeles.

At approximately 2:10 a.m., the chase concluded when police deployed multiple spike strips, successfully puncturing a tire on the right side of the bus. By that time, the bus had come to a stop at the intersection of Alameda Street and 6th Street. Inside the bus were the driver, two passengers, and the hijacker.

A SWAT team was quickly dispatched to the scene to address the hostage situation. They successfully boarded the bus, managing to rescue both the driver and one passenger, Graham reported during the media briefing.

The suspect, upon realizing he was surrounded, surrendered immediately to the authorities. However, during a thorough search of the bus, officers discovered a fourth individual who had sustained multiple gunshot wounds.

This victim was subsequently transported to a local hospital, where he unfortunately succumbed to his injuries. Authorities reported that two other individuals on the bus declined to receive medical treatment.

At this time, the investigation remains active as law enforcement works to piece together the events leading up to this tragic situation.