Prosecutors have filed multiple charges against Lamont A. Campbell, accusing him of hijacking an LA Metro bus, murdering a passenger, and leading police on a lengthy chase through downtown Los Angeles. The charges include murder, kidnapping, robbery, and carjacking, with additional allegations of firearm use and possession by a felon.
Campbell’s actions remain under investigation, though at least one robbery was confirmed during the hijacking. Officials have highlighted the severity of the situation, as Campbell faces up to 90 years, 9 months to life in prison if convicted.
The incident began when Campbell allegedly commandeered a Metro bus, holding passengers and the driver hostage. During the standoff, Anthony Rivera, a 48-year-old passenger, was shot and later died from his injuries at the hospital.
Rivera had been commuting home from his job at Dodger Stadium when the hijacking unfolded. Police intervened after a lengthy pursuit, with LAPD SWAT rescuing the driver and attempting to save Rivera, though tragically, he succumbed to his gunshot wounds.
Lamont A. Campbell Charged with Murder, Hijacking LA Metro Bus, and Leading Police on Pursuit
Rivera’s family, devastated by the loss, is demanding justice and stronger security measures on public transit. His mother, Teresa Rivera, spoke out, calling for improvements to ensure the safety of passengers.
The family’s plea for action comes as part of a broader concern about the rise of crime in LA’s Metro system. The incident has sparked public debate about the safety of public transportation in the city and how to prevent such tragedies in the future.
LA County Supervisor Janice Hahn, also chair of the Metro transit system board, commented on the situation, noting that crimes on public transportation often reflect broader issues in the community. However, when such incidents happen on buses or trains, they tend to capture national attention.
Hahn acknowledged that similar hijackings have occurred in other cities, stressing the need for stronger preventive measures, such as weapon screening systems and a more visible police presence on public transit.
Meanwhile, Campbell was scheduled to make his initial court appearance but refused to enter the courtroom, delaying his arraignment. He is expected to appear in court the following day. The case has renewed conversations about transit safety and the role of law enforcement, with officials like Hahn advocating for changes to better protect passengers and reduce the likelihood of such violent incidents.
