WICHITA, Kan.- Police have identified the man killed in a tragic incident aboard a Wichita city bus on Thursday afternoon as 54-year-old Reginald Griffith, a local resident. The deadly event occurred around 3:30 p.m. near the intersection of Maple and Meridian streets, bringing a large police response and leaving nearby residents shaken.
According to the Wichita Police Department, officers were dispatched after receiving reports of a disturbance involving possible gunfire on a moving city bus. When they arrived, they found Griffith suffering from serious injuries to his upper body. Despite efforts by first responders to save him, he was pronounced dead shortly afterward. Investigators quickly began securing the area, speaking with witnesses, and reviewing footage from cameras inside the bus.
Authorities said there were five passengers and the driver on board when the incident took place. The bus was moving at the time, creating chaos and confusion among those inside. Officials praised the quick actions of the driver, who managed to safely bring the vehicle to a stop, allowing passengers to exit without further harm. Police later arrested a 34-year-old suspect believed to be connected to the shooting. The suspect’s name has not been released, but investigators confirmed that he and Griffith knew each other before the encounter.
Preliminary findings indicate that the incident was not a random act, and authorities believe it stemmed from personal circumstances between the two men. No other injuries were reported, and police assured the public that there is no ongoing threat to community safety. “This appears to be an isolated incident,” police said in a brief statement. “Our priority now is to determine what led to the tragic events that unfolded on that bus.”
Residents and business owners near the scene described the situation as deeply unsettling. “It’s frightening to think something like that could happen on a regular afternoon,” said Jonathan Slusser, who works nearby. Another witness, Ilene Bonson, said she saw flashing lights and police tape surrounding the area moments later. “It’s so sad and shocking. You just don’t expect this to happen on public transportation,” she said.
The Wichita Transit Department expressed condolences to Griffith’s family and confirmed that counseling resources will be offered to the bus operator and passengers. Police Chief Joe Sullivan called the shooting “a deeply unfortunate and isolated event,” assuring the community that investigators are working diligently to uncover the full details. Authorities urged anyone with information or video footage to contact Crime Stoppers or the Wichita Police Department directly as the investigation continues.