In a heartbreaking incident on Thursday afternoon, 54-year-old Reginald Griffith lost his life aboard a Wichita city bus near the intersection of Maple and Meridian streets. The tragedy unfolded around 3:30 p.m., sending shockwaves through the local community.
According to the Wichita Police Department, officers responded to reports of a disturbance involving possible gunfire on a moving city bus. Upon arrival, they discovered Griffith with serious upper body injuries. Despite immediate medical attention, he was pronounced dead shortly after. Investigators secured the area, interviewed witnesses, and reviewed footage from the bus’s interior cameras.
At the time of the incident, the bus was in motion, with five passengers and the driver on board. The driver was commended for his swift actions in safely bringing the vehicle to a stop, allowing passengers to exit without further harm.
A 34-year-old suspect was arrested in connection with the shooting. While his identity has not been disclosed, authorities confirmed that he and Griffith were known to each other prior to the incident. Preliminary findings suggest that the shooting was not random but stemmed from personal circumstances between the two men.
No other injuries were reported, and police assured the public that there is no ongoing threat to community safety. They emphasized that this appears to be an isolated incident and are focusing on understanding the events that led to this tragedy.
Residents and business owners near the scene expressed their shock and concern. Jonathan Slusser, a local worker, described the situation as deeply unsettling, stating, “It’s frightening to think something like that could happen on a regular afternoon.” Another witness, Ilene Bonson, recalled seeing flashing lights and police tape surrounding the area moments later, adding, “It’s so sad and shocking. You just don’t expect this to happen on public transportation.”
The Wichita Transit Department extended its condolences to Griffith’s family and confirmed that counseling resources would be provided to the bus operator and passengers affected by the incident. Police Chief Joe Sullivan referred to the shooting as “a deeply unfortunate and isolated event,” assuring the community that investigators are diligently working to uncover the full details. Authorities have urged anyone with information or video footage to contact Crime Stoppers or the Wichita Police Department as the investigation continues.
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