Published on: September 24, 2024, 05:28h.
Last updated on: September 24, 2024, 05:28h.
A bus driver in San Jose, California allegedly fatally shot a colleague over an unpaid gambling debt, as per authorities.
Duc Minh Bui, 33, was taken into custody on suspicion of first-degree murder of Regulus “Reggie” Teotico, 45, who was also a bus driver at the Valley Transportation Authority (VTA).
Authorities believe that Bui shot Teotico at the Chaboya Division Yard in San Jose on Sunday morning, September 22.
Responders found Teotico with serious gunshot wounds, and he was pronounced dead at the scene.
‘Kind, Hard-Working Driver’
Bui, identified through surveillance footage, was apprehended near his residence shortly after the incident. The Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Office mentioned that evidence indicates Bui as the sole perpetrator in the crime.
VTA general manager Carolyn Gonot described Teotico as “a friendly and diligent driver who was well-respected by his peers.”
Teotico worked with the VTA for a decade. He and Bui were known to socialize outside of work as friends.
They engaged in similar activities beyond their VTA jobs,” Sheriff’s Capt. Sugey Jaimez stated during a news briefing. “The motive is believed to be related to a debt from their gambling interactions, unrelated to their work.
Jaimez also mentioned that the suspect, with no prior criminal record, did not raise any suspicions.
VTA Mass Shooting Recalled
VTA employees are still coping with a devastating workplace shooting that occurred three years ago, the deadliest in Bay Area history.
On May 26, 2021, Samuel James Cassidy, a disgruntled electro-mechanic, set his house on fire before targeting his colleagues at the VTA railyard in San Jose.
The shooting took place during a busy time at the yard, with over 100 workers present during a shift change.
Cassidy fatally shot nine individuals, selectively choosing his targets, before taking his own life.
County Supervisor Cindy Chavez, chair of the VTA board of directors, mentioned during a news conference on Monday, “The mental health services and our support to each other are crucial due to this traumatic event reliving one of the worst experiences in their lives for many people.”
A candlelight vigil was held in memory of Teotico on Sunday evening.