California Bus Driver, Father of Two, Killed After Shift
A 12-year veteran of Culver CityBus was fatally shot after finishing his shift, leaving behind his wife and two young sons.
Bruce Rodriquez, 42, a newlywed father of two young boys, was fatally shot shortly after completing his shift on Thursday, Oct. 1, near Centinela and Mitchell avenues on the border of Culver City and Los Angeles. His family described him as a devoted father who "LOVED being a father" and the primary provider for his household, which also included his elderly parents.
Rodriquez, a 12-year veteran of Culver CityBus, was reportedly involved in an altercation with a passenger who was intoxicated. LAPD Capt. Eric Eppolito told NBC LA that the dispute was apparently over directions. Rodriquez was transported to a local hospital where he succumbed to his injuries.
Police arrested 55-year-old Jose Zayas on Friday afternoon in connection with the shooting. Zayas was taken into custody on suspicion of murder. His bail has been set at $3 million. The FBI Violent Crime Apprehension Task Force assisted the LAPD in the arrest.
Friends and family remembered Rodriquez as a warm and easygoing individual who enjoyed making people laugh. His sister-in-law, Kathy Sanchez, told KTLA that he was known for giving Hot Wheels cars to younger passengers and that his "priority was always keeping his passengers safe."
Culver CityBus suspended its services throughout the weekend to allow employees time to grieve. A GoFundMe campaign established to support Rodriquez's family, including his wife Sandy, their two young sons, and his parents, had raised over $87,000 by Saturday afternoon to help cover funeral expenses and provide for the family.