Millions of Americans, like Adam Garber and his 5-year-old daughter, rely on buses for their daily commute to work and school. However, in today's climate, this routine journey has become a source of anxiety and fear rather than just a means of transportation.
Instead of merely worrying about punctuality, passengers now fear for their safety and even their lives while riding the bus.
"I feel like I have to be ready to grab her," says Garber, 41, from Philadelphia. "I can’t fully enjoy her happiness because I'm constantly worried."
The frequency of shootings in and around buses has escalated, leading to national headlines and community distress.
Just recently, after eight high school students were shot at a Philadelphia bus stop, Garber recounted a wave of fear engulfing him as he rode with his daughter.
In the aftermath of these incidents, the buses in Philadelphia seemed emptier, with passengers keeping their heads down and avoiding eye contact.
Garber observed this shift, noting, "I keep my head down because some of the incidents are really driven by random interactions."
Buses are a vital mode of transportation for millions across the U.S., with the nation's largest group of public transportation commuters relying on them.
However, deadly shootings at bus stops and on buses leave lasting scars on communities.
These incidents, often fueled by anger or disputes, particularly impact poorer communities where public transportation is a lifeline
The shootings not only erode confidence in public transportation but also raise questions about bus safety and funding.
"Enough is enough," declared Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker following the tragic death of 17-year-old Dayemen Taylor at a bus stop.
The incidents highlight the broader issue of gun violence and its impact on public spaces like buses.
As fear of shootings permeates public spaces, including buses, interactions among people have shifted.
Garber noted a decline in social engagement, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic began, as people are unsure of who may be carrying a firearm and what could trigger an attack.
The recent surge in gun sales, coupled with a lack of safety training, has heightened the risk of gun-related incidents on buses.
While data on mass transit shootings is scarce, reports indicate that many of these incidents stem from everyday disputes that escalate into deadly encounters.
Despite efforts to improve safety, including rules against bringing weapons onto buses, there are challenges in enforcing these regulations.
This, along with lenient gun laws in some states, has contributed to the rise in violence on public transit.
The impact of these shootings extends beyond the immediate victims, affecting communities' trust in public transportation.
Particularly vulnerable are those who rely on buses due to economic constraints or physical limitations, including lower-income individuals, minorities, immigrants, and younger people.
Community leaders and organizations are advocating for preventative programs to address transit violence.
These efforts aim to create safer environments at bus stops and on buses, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive approach that goes beyond increased policing.
As communities grapple with the aftermath of bus-related shootings, the need for effective solutions to ensure the safety of all passengers remains a pressing concern.