Three teenage suspects have been taken into custody by authorities in connection with the tragic shooting death of a Georgia bus driver, Leroy Ramos. The incident occurred on Friday night during a dispute over fare payment at a MARTA station in Decatur, just outside Atlanta. Ramos, a 47-year-old driver, was shot multiple times following the argument related to a $2.50 fare, according to a press release from MARTA.
The two juveniles who were apprehended on the evening of the shooting have not been publicly identified due to their age. They are currently facing charges of murder as adults. A third suspect voluntarily surrendered to authorities a few days after the shooting, as reported by local news outlets Fox 5 and Atlanta News First.
Video footage obtained by WSB-TV captured the altercation between Ramos and the teenagers, with the sound of gunshots audible in the background. MARTA expressed deep sorrow over the loss of Leroy Ramos, describing him as a new employee and a valuable member of the transit community. The public transit agency emphasized its commitment to a strict de-escalation policy to safeguard employees from violence and noted that enforcement of rules is the responsibility of MARTA Police.
In the wake of the tragic incident, a GoFundMe campaign was established to support Ramos’ surviving family, including his wife and three children. The fundraiser has garnered significant support, raising over $10,000 to assist the grieving family. Expressing their grief and calling for positive change, the family emphasized that every loss can serve as a lesson and an opportunity for growth.
Ramos, who had joined MARTA as an employee in October, leaves behind a legacy of dedication and service within the transit community. His untimely death has deeply impacted his loved ones and colleagues, who mourn the loss of a cherished individual. As investigations into the shooting continue, the community remains united in seeking justice for Ramos and his family.
Taylor Ardrey, reporting for USA TODAY, contributed to this article. For further inquiries or information, contact tardrey@gannett.com.
This article was originally published on USA TODAY, covering the devastating loss of MARTA bus driver Leroy Ramos and the subsequent arrests of teenagers on murder charges.
