Chilling Moment Caught on Surveillance Footage as 18-Year-Old Opens Fire on CTA Bus Passengers
Recently obtained surveillance footage from a public records request has revealed the harrowing moment when an 18-year-old man unleashed gunfire through the rear doors of a CTA bus during a late-night ride in April. The shocking incident resulted in two unsuspecting passengers being hit by bullets, leading to chaos onboard.
The suspect, identified as William Soto, 18, from Chicago, was reportedly on probation for a previous gun offense when he boldly declared his gang affiliation and started shooting at a man whom he believed had disrespected him.
The shooting took place at around 11:44 p.m. on April 27, as a westbound #77 Belmont bus was nearing the intersection of Belmont and Cicero avenues.
The video footage, shared by The Watcher, captures the moment when Soto exits the bus through the rear doors. A man with whom he had exchanged words starts to follow him, but his girlfriend notices a firearm tucked in Soto’s waistband and pulls him back by his hoodie.
As the doors close, a bullet shatters through the left glass pane followed by another through the right, causing glass and debris to scatter inside the bus. Passengers inside quickly duck and seek cover.
The intended target, a 40-year-old man riding with his girlfriend, was shot in the thigh. A second victim, a 22-year-old man who was not involved in the altercation and was wearing headphones, was hit in the ankle. Both victims received medical treatment at local hospitals and were released later that night.
The conflict reportedly began when Soto stood up and proclaimed his gang affiliation to the victim, stating “I’m a Man,” referring to his membership in the Maniac Latin Disciples gang. He then allegedly threatened the man, indicating that he would retaliate once they exited the bus.
After the shooting, investigators utilized surveillance footage from the CTA, nearby establishments, and residential Ring cameras to track Soto’s movements. One clip purportedly shows Soto fleeing down a street and entering his residence.
Soto now faces charges including two counts of attempted murder, aggravated discharge of a firearm into an occupied vehicle, and unlawful use of a weapon.
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