Charlotte School Bus Caught in Gunfire: Fourth Suspect Charged

Charlotte School Bus Caught in Gunfire: Fourth Suspect Charged

Charlotte, N.C. – A fourth individual has been charged following a shooting incident that involved a school bus carrying students in Charlotte. The police announced that Jaheim Boone, 23, was charged on Thursday, December 19, in connection with the incident that occurred earlier in the week.

The situation unfolded on Monday, December 16, when a dispute over drugs led to gunfire on East W.T. Harris Boulevard near Albemarle Road. The shot struck a Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools bus, which had approximately 30 students on board at the time. Fortunately, none of the students were injured by bullets; however, two received treatment for minor cuts caused by shattered glass.

According to the police, the school bus was not intended to be a target in the shooting but was caught in the crossfire. Initially, three individuals, including Boone, Joshua Woods, and Paris Lewis-Bynum, were charged with assault in connection with the incident. Lamarius Anthony, another man aged 21, was also apprehended shortly after the shooting.

Details of the Charges

Boone faces multiple charges, including unlawfully assaulting Lewis-Bynum with a 9 mm handgun with the intent to kill. He allegedly fired shots into not only the school bus but also an occupied sedan and van in the vicinity. During a court appearance on December 19, Lewis-Bynum was denied bail and is scheduled to appear again on January 9, 2025.

Woods is set to appear in court on Monday, December 23, but details regarding Anthony’s involvement remain unclear as he was charged only with drug possession and concealing a weapon rather than assault.

Police Investigation and Community Reaction

The investigation began when police observed Anthony leaving the area after the shots were fired. He was subsequently arrested and charged with felony possession of cocaine and carrying a concealed weapon. While involved in the aftermath of the shooting, Anthony’s direct participation in the incident remains uncertain.

Community leaders and law enforcement continue to express concern about the violence that jeopardizes the safety of children. After the incident, a video emerged showcasing the bus driver’s reaction, praising God for protecting the students as the bullets flew. This highlights the growing fear among parents and educators regarding safety on school transport, as this is not the first shooting incident involving school buses in the area.

Ongoing Investigation

As of now, law enforcement officials have not disclosed how many individuals may have been involved in the drug dispute that led to the shooting. The police urge the community to come forward with any information that may assist in the ongoing investigation. They emphasize that incidents like this should not be part of the daily concerns for students and parents alike.

The situation underscores the alarming trend of violence impacting educational environments, prompting renewed calls for solutions to ensure the safety of students in Charlotte and beyond.