The 51-year-old man accused of hijacking a Los Angeles Metro bus and fatally shooting a passenger while leading police in pursuit is facing a slew of charges, including murder and attempted murder, officials announced Monday.
Lamont Campbell, who is currently in custody, allegedly hijacked the Metro bus at around 12:45 a.m. on Sept. 25.
Prosecutors say the 51-year-old boarded the bus with several passengers at the corner Figueroa Street and Vermont Avenue, pulled out a firearm and shot 48-year-old Anthony Rivera multiple times, killing him.
“Cambell then threatened the driver with the firearm and demanded he drive,” a news release from the L.A. County District Attorney’s Office stated. “Campbell also threatened the other passengers with the weapon and robbed a passenger.”
Authorities learned that a person on the bus had pulled out a gun, prompting the bus driver to activate a panic button that displays a “CALL 911” message, the Los Angeles Police Department said.
Officers found the bus stopped near West 117th Street and South Figueroa Street, but it began to move when officers got close, prompting a pursuit. Police said the suspect was holding the driver at gunpoint.
During the slow speed pursuit, officers deployed spike strips, which flattened the bus’s tires. The pursuit ended after roughly an hour at East 6th Street and South Alameda Street downtown.
Responding SWAT officers deployed a flash-bang device, enabling the bus driver to escape by climbing through a window and allowing police to rescue the other passengers and take Campbell into custody.
“Today, I stand with a heavy heart as we confront the tragic aftermath of a senseless act of violence that has taken a life and shattered the sense of safety for many in our community,” said District Attorney Gascón. “It is unacceptable that anyone should feel fear while simply traveling within our county. I am committed to ensuring that all Angelenos can navigate their daily routines without the threat of violence looming over them.”
Campbell was charged with one count of murder; one count of attempted murder; one felony count of kidnapping during carjacking; four felony counts of kidnapping; one felony count of carjacking; one felony count of assault with a semi-automatic handgun; one felony count of robbery; one felony count of evading with reckless disregard; and one felony count of felon in possession of a firearm.
“I extend my deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of the victim,” said Metro Board Director and Los Angeles County Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell. “It goes without saying that we demand full accountability for this senseless act of violence. I commend the brave Metro staff and first responders for quickly intervening and District Attorney George Gascón for bringing forth charges today against Lamont Campbell.”
If convicted as charged, the 51-year-old faces a maximum sentence of 90 years and eight months to life in prison.
During his Oct. 1 court appearance, prosecutors asked that bail be set at more than $5.5 million.