In a shocking incident in Seattle, Washington, a 17-year-old suspect has been arrested and charged with first-degree murder and second-degree unlawful possession of a firearm after allegedly shooting a 21-year-old passenger who had fallen asleep on a city bus. The suspect, identified as Miguel Rivera Dominguez, turned himself in after a month-long search.
The tragic event occurred on October 3 on a King County Metro Transit Bus in White Center. Surveillance footage reportedly shows Dominguez boarding the bus wearing a ski mask and sitting in the back for 12 minutes before opening fire. The victim, Marcel Wagner, was asleep at the time, and prosecutors claim that the shooting was a “senseless execution of a total stranger.”
According to charging documents, Dominguez shot Wagner in the head and neck without provocation, leaving the victim dead from multiple gunshot wounds. As passengers on the bus screamed and sought cover, the suspect allegedly fired two more shots through the door before fleeing and changing his clothing. Fortunately, none of the other passengers or the bus driver were injured in the incident.
The King County Sheriff’s Office launched an extensive search for the armed and dangerous suspect, utilizing specialized units, aerial support, and a K9 unit. Dominguez was identified as the suspect on October 16, with authorities stating that there is no evidence suggesting any prior connection between him and Wagner.
Wagner’s death has left friends and family in mourning, with his former teacher describing him as “energetic, outgoing, and lovable.” The motive behind the random shooting remains unclear as police continue their investigation.
Miguel Rivera Dominguez is currently held on a $3 million bail, and it is uncertain whether he has retained legal representation. As the community grapples with the senseless tragedy, the case raises concerns about public safety and the unpredictability of such violent acts.