LAS VEGAS — On Oct. 25, a 17‑year‑old identified as Amari Heath opened fire at the Bonneville Transit Center in downtown Las Vegas, striking a passenger, Joe Campbell, and an RTC security officer who was in the line of fire.
According to the arrest report, Heath pulled a concealed 9 mm handgun from his waistband and fired several rounds toward Campbell, hitting him in the left arm. A security officer, Joe Campbell, was also struck in the left ankle.
The armed security officer immediately responded, discharging his weapon and hitting Heath. All three individuals were transported to a local hospital for treatment.
Details of the incident
Surveillance video captured the exchange, and investigators later recovered 14 cartridge casings and two firearms at the scene. The report provides differing accounts of how the confrontation began. Campbell’s wife told detectives that three men in hoodies were watching her husband in a confrontational manner and followed the couple as they left the station. One of the men allegedly said, “I’m from west‑coast gang,” to which Campbell replied, “What does that have to do with anything?” Another witness said the argument started when one man confronted another about staring.
Charges and court appearance
Heath now faces multiple charges, including attempted murder with a deadly weapon, battery and assault with a deadly weapon, battery causing substantial bodily harm to an RTC employee, carrying a concealed firearm without a permit, discharging a weapon where people could be endangered, and possession of a firearm by someone under 18. He is scheduled to appear in court on Nov. 12.
The incident underscores ongoing concerns about safety at public transit facilities and the importance of having trained, armed security personnel to protect riders and staff.
Original reporting: News 3 KSNV Las Vegas (local) — read the source article.
