An 18-year-old from Houston is facing serious federal weapons charges after a deadly incident on a METRO bus earlier this month. Patrick Scott, already held on state charges related to the case, was slapped with additional allegations of possessing a machine gun unlawfully, according to a report by FOX 26 Houston. These federal charges could land him in prison for up to 15 years and result in fines up to $250,000. The charges stem from a confrontation on Jan. 7, when gunfire erupted between Scott and another individual, resulting in the death of an innocent bystander.
The shootout occurred on Metro Bus #2611, along Route 161. Brayden Smith, the second suspect and a 17-year-old, is accused of initiating the attack that led to the fatality. Smith allegedly boarded the bus and opened fire toward Scott, who retrieved his own weapon, leading to crossfire where a 25-year-old woman was tragically killed, as detailed by a report from Click2Houston. A teenager also suffered injuries but is expected to make a full recovery. Scott's gun, identified as a 9mm Glock with a "switch" device, was found and linked to him the following day.
At the time of the shooting, Scott was under indictment for aggravated robbery, which under federal law prohibits him from gun possession. The U.S. Attorney's Office emphasizes the seriousness of the charges, with U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei stating, "Scott is alleged to have violated his bond conditions by possessing a firearm—a decision that directly contributed to the death of innocent young woman and the wounding of a teen bystander", as told to FOX 26 Houston.
Responding to the incident, FBI Houston Special Agent in Charge Douglas Williams highlighted the broader implications, saying, "A young woman was killed and a teenager endures a long recovery because of the disregard Scott and a teen rival held for innocent lives on that bus", in a statement obtained by Click2Houston. The agency and federal prosecutors are making it clear that they intend to hold those who flout gun laws accountable, possibly as a deterrent to other potential offenders.
