Atlanta, Georgia – A hijacked bus incident in Atlanta turned deadly on Tuesday when police found an adult victim with a gunshot wound. The incident began when Atlanta police officers responded to a report of possible gunfire and a potential hostage situation on a Gwinnett County Transit bus. The bus fled the scene, leading to a pursuit that spanned multiple jurisdictions and involved several agencies. Eventually, the bus was brought to a stop and the suspect, 39-year-old Joseph Grier, was taken into custody.
Police cleared the bus, which was carrying 17 individuals including the driver, and discovered the critically injured victim. The victim was transported to the hospital but ultimately succumbed to their injury. No further injuries were reported.
During a press conference, Atlanta Police Chief Darin Schierbaum revealed details about the incident. Officers had responded to a 911 call before the suspect forced the bus driver to drive away after being confronted by an officer. Another 911 call was made from the bus by a family member of one of the occupants, helping officers in their response.
Grier, a convicted felon with 19 prior arrests, was apprehended and his last known address was in Stone Mountain, Georgia. Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens called the situation “like the movies” while expressing shock. Schierbaum commended the bus driver for his bravery in a “very dangerous situation.”
Prior to the bus hijacking, three individuals were shot at Peachtree Center Mall in Atlanta. The Atlanta Police Department confirmed that the victims, a 47-year-old male, a 69-year-old female, and a 70-year-old female, sustained gunshot wounds. They were transported to local hospitals for treatment. Officers apprehended a 34-year-old male suspect who was found in possession of a firearm.
Mayor Dickens, addressing the bus hijacking, emphasized the issue of gun violence and the accessibility of guns. He cited the prevalence of guns in the hands of individuals who should not possess them, leading to incidents on the streets, in homes, and even on buses and in schools.
The Atlanta Police Department stated that they do not believe the two shootings to be linked. No further updates have been provided at this time.