A recent violent episode on a Las Vegas public bus has reignited concerns over passenger safety. A man was caught on camera brandishing a knife and stabbing another passenger 27 times. The victim, who survived against all odds, has initiated legal action against the Regional Transportation Commission (RTC) for their alleged failure to ensure adequate security. This event has intensified the examination of safety protocols on the city’s bus system.
Two years prior, a similar act of violence on the same transit system resulted in a fatality, prompting questions about the efficacy of RTC’s safety measures. The bus driver’s delayed response in the previous incident, which took four minutes to halt and allow passengers to disembark, sparked significant anxiety among both passengers and drivers. Many have voiced increasing apprehension about their safety while utilizing public transportation.
Joseph Lopez, the attorney representing the recent victim, contends that safety has been a persistent issue on RTC buses. The lawsuit underscores the immediate need for conspicuous security measures, such as onboard guards, particularly on high-traffic routes. On the night of the attack, video footage revealed the assailant, Devenski Tongue, openly brandishing a knife for several minutes before the stabbing occurred.
In response to these security concerns, RTC has taken steps to bolster safety. The agency has switched security vendors and now employs over 300 armed officers to patrol the buses, a move that cost $23 million. Furthermore, RTC is investigating innovative solutions, such as utilizing artificial intelligence to identify weapons before passengers board.
Tom Atterbury, RTC’s Senior Director of Safety and Security, admits past failures but stresses that significant enhancements have been implemented. Incidents involving passengers have reportedly dropped by over 40% from 2023 to 2024. Atterbury credits these improvements to heightened security measures and stricter enforcement against fare evaders, which he believes has led to the decrease in incidents.
Despite these advancements, some bus drivers continue to voice concerns for their safety. They advocate for a greater armed security presence and are optimistic that emerging technologies will further improve safety. The trial for the accused attacker, Tongue, is slated for this summer, with bail previously set at a million dollars.
As the discourse over transit safety persists, Nevada lawmakers in Carson City are contemplating Assembly Bill 361. This proposal would mandate physical barriers to safeguard drivers and panic buttons on all transit vehicles requiring a commercial driver’s license. While RTC has already implemented some of these measures, the ongoing discussions underscore the crucial need for comprehensive safety strategies on public transportation.