A tragic shooting unfolded Wednesday afternoon on a METRO bus in west Houston, claiming the life of 25‑year‑old Caitlin Stup as she rode to work, police and family members confirmed. Stup, described by authorities as an innocent bystander with no involvement in the incident, was shot in the head and later died at a local hospital. A 16‑year‑old boy was also struck and wounded during the attack.
Incident Details:
– The shooting occurred around 2:30 p.m. near Richmond Avenue and Walnut Bend Lane on bus Route 161 as passengers, including Stup, were en route to their destinations. Surveillance video and police accounts indicate that two male suspects opened fire inside the bus, allegedly aiming at each other and inadvertently hitting Stup.
– Investigators initially searched for the gunmen after the attack caused panic aboard the vehicle. The METRO bus driver stopped the bus immediately and evacuated all passengers safely following the shots.
Victim and Community Impact:
– Family members identified the victim as Caitlin Stup, age 25, noting she was on her way to work at a restaurant when the violence erupted, and emphasizing that she had no connection to the suspects or the dispute that led to gunfire.
– Friends and relatives described Stup as someone with a bright future and close ties to her community, and her death has prompted an outpouring of grief and calls for enhanced safety measures on public transit.
Suspects Arrested:
– Houston police later confirmed that two suspects have been taken into custody in connection with the shooting, with charges pending. One individual has been charged with murder related to the fatal shot, while the second is facing charges associated with unlawful carrying of a weapon, and additional charges may follow as the investigation progresses.
Ongoing Investigation:
– Authorities continue to review surveillance footage, witness statements, and forensic evidence as part of a homicide investigation led by the Houston Police Department. Law enforcement is also urging the public to come forward with any additional information that might assist in the case.
