Suspect on the run after shooting onboard MATA bus

MEMPHIS, TN (WMC) - One person was shot on a bus at the MATA downtown station Wednesday afternoon, according to police.

Police officers responded to the scene in the 400 block of North Main Street.

According to a MATA spokesperson, the victim was shot after he got into an argument with another man on MATA bus 19.

Passengers said they were terrified, anxiously running off of the bus after the shooting happened.

"They was just tussling and then he said, 'I'm a (sic) show you. I'm a show you today,'" said witness Xavier Lake. "Then next thing you know you know you just done hear 'pop.' And next thing you know everybody was trying to run."

Witnesses said the suspect pushed everyone out of the way and ran down Second Street.

The victim was taken to the hospital in critical condition.

MATA released the following statement about the incident:

MATA has been briefed on a shooting incident involving two male customers on Route 19 Vollintine at 2:25 p.m. as the bus entered the Hudson Transit Center located at 444 N. Main Street.  According to witnesses, the two men were acquainted with one another and an argument between them ensued.   The bus operator followed all appropriate procedures by requesting the men to calm down and be seated.  The bus operator also submitted an emergency request to the MATA radio dispatcher for help and police assistance.

This matter is being investigated by the Memphis Police Department. As a police matter with an active investigation, MATA cannot comment on any other specifics about this event.  All reports and surveillance video have been given to the Memphis Police Department for its investigation.

There were 12 customers on the bus at the time of the incident, and all exited the bus safely.

MATA will further review all safety measures taken and the appropriate personnel will receive retraining, if necessary, on emergency procedures to protect and ensure the safety of those utilizing MATA services and facilities. All MATA buses are equipped with surveillance equipment for the safety of customers and employees.

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