**Bus Dispute Escalates into Frightening Shootout between Driver and Passenger**
A disagreement over a missed stop on a bus in Charlotte, North Carolina, rapidly spiraled out of control, resulting in a dangerous exchange of gunfire between the driver and passenger, all of which was recorded by security cameras.
On May 18, a tense exchange occurred on a Charlotte Area Transit System bus when Omarri Tobias approached driver David Fullard, demanding to be let off the bus between stops. The situation quickly escalated when Tobias brandished a gun, prompting Fullard to pull out his own firearm. Video footage shows the plexiglass barrier between the two shattered by bullets, though it is unclear who fired first.
Frantically trying to evade the gunfire, other passengers on the bus are seen fleeing or hitting the ground for cover. The video reveals Fullard continuing to shoot as he follows Tobias off the bus, after the latter crawls away. Both men sustained critical injuries, but are expected to recover fully after treatment at a hospital.
David Fullard has since been relieved of his duties as a city bus operator for violating transit company policies prohibiting weapons. Charlotte Area Transit System Interim CEO Brent Cagle has declared that weapons are not allowed on their vehicles, emphasizing that it is standard procedure for drivers to refuse passenger exit between stops. Cagle also mentioned that Fullard had failed to make use of alarms designed for such altercations.
Ken Harris, the attorney representing Fullard, stated that Fullard had been with the transit system for two decades and was devoted to his job. Prior to learning Fullard had lost his job, Harris maintained that they intended to address any issues stemming from the incident. Harris also highlighted the dangers faced by bus drivers, as incidents where drivers are assaulted, shot at or killed continue to occur repeatedly.
While Omarri Tobias faces numerous charges over the incident, it remains unclear if David Fullard will face any charges.
**Dangerous Bus Confrontation Highlights the Risks Bus Drivers Face Daily**
