A man was shot at a Metrobus stop in Northeast D.C. on Monday evening, sparking concerns about safety in the city’s public transportation system.
According to the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD), the incident took place at around 7:30 p.m. at the bus stop located at the intersection of Benning Road and Minnesota Avenue NE. The victim, who has not been identified, was shot multiple times and taken to a nearby hospital in critical condition.
Police are still investigating the motive behind the shooting and searching for the suspect. They have not released any further information at this time.
The shooting has left many residents and commuters concerned about their safety while using public transportation in the city. This incident is the latest in a string of violent crimes that have occurred on or near D.C.’s public transportation system in recent years.
In 2018, a man was shot and killed at the Deanwood Metro station in Northeast D.C. In 2019, a woman was sexually assaulted on a Metro train. And just last month, a Metrobus driver was assaulted by a passenger in Northwest D.C.
Public officials and transportation advocates have called for increased safety measures and resources to address the issue. D.C. Councilmember Trayon White, who represents the area where the shooting took place, released a statement expressing his condolences and calling for action.
“We must do more to ensure the safety of our residents and commuters, especially those who rely on public transportation to get around the city,” said White. “I will be working with my colleagues on the Council and with Metro officials to address this urgent issue.”
Metro spokesperson Dan Stessel also released a statement, saying that the agency is working closely with law enforcement to investigate the incident and ensure the safety of its customers.
“Safety is our top priority, and we are committed to working with law enforcement to ensure that our customers can travel safely and securely throughout the region,” said Stessel.
The shooting at the Metrobus stop also highlights the broader issue of gun violence in the District. According to MPD data, there have been 52 homicides in the city so far this year, a 43% increase from the same period last year.
Mayor Muriel Bowser has made reducing gun violence a top priority of her administration, launching a number of initiatives aimed at addressing the issue. However, the recent uptick in violent crime has left many residents feeling uneasy and calling for more action to be taken.
In addition to increasing safety measures on public transportation, some residents are also calling for more community-based solutions to address gun violence in the city.
“We need to invest in our communities and provide opportunities for our young people,” said D.C. resident and community organizer Jamal Henderson. “If we want to reduce gun violence, we need to address the root causes of it.”
The shooting at the Metrobus stop is a stark reminder of the violence that continues to plague D.C. and the urgent need for action to address it. As the investigation continues, residents and officials alike will be looking for solutions to make the city safer for everyone.
In the meantime, commuters and residents are advised to stay alert and aware of their surroundings while using public transportation in the city.
