CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A CATS bus driver has passed away less than 24 hours after Charlotte police say he was shot in Uptown late Friday evening.
Medic first confirmed to WCNC Charlotte Friday evening they responded near West 4th Street and South Graham Street before 10 p.m. Authorities confirmed the bus driver was taken to Atrium Main with life-threatening injuries.
Officials said the bus driver and suspect got into a verbal altercation while stopped at a red light on Trade Street.
The Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) said CityLYNX Gold Line service was suspended in the area, but a bus bridge near French Street and the Charlotte Transportation Center.
The Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department later confirmed via Twitter the shooting happened along West Trade Street, and that the victim was a CATS bus driver.
Just before 9 p.m. Saturday, CMPD confirmed 41-year-old Ethan Rivera, the driver of the bus, had died of his wounds almost one day later. CMPD also confirmed there were four passengers on the bus at the time, but CMPD noted they were unharmed, and that the initial call Friday evening came in around 9:30 p.m. CMPD noted another driver got into a verbal fight with Rivera at a red light along Trade Street, shooting him after words were exchanged.
The investigation is now active. Anyone who has information about the shooting is asked to call 704-432-TIPS to talk with a homicide detective directly, or leave a Crime Stoppers tip online or by calling 704-334-1600.
Co-workers speak out
In the hours after Rivera's passing was announced, several friends and co-workers who spoke with WCNC Charlotte on the condition of anonymity said they don't feel safe after the shooting. They also say there have been other violent incidents aboard CATS buses. Everyone who spoke also noted who loved Rivera was and that he was easily respected.
WCNC Charlotte has reached out to CMPD for more information, along with CATS. We've asked for more information from police about reported violent incidents on CATS buses and trains, if CMPD plans to place officers on these vehicles or patrol along routes, and about any progress made in the investigation.
WCNC Charlotte has also requested a statement from CATS on three separate occasions in the last 24 hours. As of 10:24 p.m. Saturday, a response has not been provided.