CATS bus driver dies after being shot in uptown Charlotte

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (WBTV) - Police say a CATS bus driver shot in uptown Charlotte died from his injuries Saturday.

Police say someone fired shots at 41-year-old Ethan Rivera from an SUV on West Trade Street near South Graham Street at around 9:35 p.m. Friday night.

“This guy, he was always smiling and always being as helpful as he could, just in my experience of what I remember of him,” said Kevin Doherty, who rode Rivera’s bus.

Family members of Rivera say he was a loving family man who moved to North Carolina from New York to be closer to his children.

Police say a CATS bus driver that was shot in uptown Charlotte Friday night, has died from his injuries.

There were four passengers on the bus, but none of them were injured.

“I mean I’m worried. I’m worried because I have to take the bus to work every day so that’s alarming,” said a CATS passenger, Jay Tillman.

Police have not said what the motive for the shooting was.

“My heart, and anybody that knew him, goes out to his family, I’m extremely sorry for what happened, and I feel like the world...like heaven’s got another angel,” said Doherty.

CATS released the following statement Sunday:

“On Friday, February 11 CATS Bus Operator, Ethan Rivera, was tragically shot and killed during his shift. He was the victim of a senseless act of violence. Ethan was a public servant and valued member of the Charlotte community. We grieve with his family during this time. All questions related to this incident should be directed to CMPD.”

CMPD says information on the suspect vehicle is coming soon. Anyone with information can submit it anonymously by contacting Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600.

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