CHICAGO — Disturbing surveillance footage has surfaced showing the moment a gunman opened fire through the rear doors of a CTA bus in Chicago’s Portage Park neighborhood, striking two passengers in what prosecutors say was a targeted act of gang-related violence.
Shooting Unfolded in Seconds Near Belmont and Cicero
The incident occurred just before midnight on April 27 as a #77 Belmont bus was traveling westbound near Belmont and Cicero avenues. According to prosecutors, William Soto, 18, had been riding the bus when he stood up, proclaimed his gang affiliation to a fellow rider, and threatened retaliation once off the vehicle.
Seconds after Soto exited through the rear doors, a man believed to be his intended target began to follow—until a woman, identified as the man’s girlfriend, pulled him back after noticing a gun tucked into Soto’s waistband.
As the doors closed, two bullets blasted through the bus glass, sending shattered debris flying. A 40-year-old man—the intended target—was hit in the thigh. A second man, 22 years old, wearing headphones and uninvolved, was struck in the ankle.
Both victims were transported to local hospitals and released later that night.
Gang Affiliation and Prior Probation
In court, prosecutors revealed that Soto had previously been on probation for another firearm offense. They say he initiated the conflict by standing and declaring, “I’m a Man,” referencing his ties to the Maniac Latin Disciples. He then warned the target that he’d “have something” for him when they got off the bus.
The gunfire came within seconds of that threat being made.
Police Track Shooter Using Security Cameras
After the shooting, Chicago police detectives used surveillance footage from the CTA, local businesses, and home security systems to trace Soto’s movements. One video allegedly shows him sprinting down a nearby street and entering a residence later identified as his home.
Soto has been charged with two counts of attempted murder, aggravated discharge of a firearm into an occupied vehicle, and unlawful use of a weapon.
CTA Riders Express Fear as Violence Escalates
The violent episode has renewed concern over public transit safety, especially for riders who feel caught in the crosshairs of gang conflicts. Though the second shooting victim was not involved in the altercation, he suffered injuries simply for being in the wrong place at the wrong time.
CTA officials and community groups continue to push for enhanced safety measures, especially on high-risk routes like Belmont.
Have You Seen Violence on CTA Buses?
ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com wants to hear from riders. Have you witnessed unsafe situations or violent encounters on public transit? Share your experience in the comments to help inform fellow commuters.
