A routine CapMetro ride through South Austin turned into a crime scene Friday when a man allegedly stabbed two passengers on a No. 3 route bus along the 2000 block of South Lamar Boulevard, leaving one rider in critical condition. The attack triggered a large police response, with officers swarming the area, detaining a suspect on scene, and sending both victims to nearby hospitals.
Police later identified the suspect as 54-year-old Rogelio Martinez. According to investigators, officers found him still on the bus with blood on his hands and clothing when they arrived. A witness told detectives that she and a friend had been talking about the Bible moments before Martinez stood up and suddenly launched the attack, according to arrest documents. Surveillance video and the affidavit are expected to be key pieces of evidence as prosecutors build the case.
Affidavit And Video Outline The Attack
An arrest affidavit and bus surveillance footage reviewed by detectives describe Martinez first stabbing one man a single time in the back, then pulling the knife out and stabbing him three more times as the victim raised his hands in an attempt to protect himself. A second passenger who stepped in to help was stabbed in the right leg and suffered cuts to his hands. That rider was taken to South Austin Hospital, while the first victim was rushed to Dell Seton Medical Center in critical condition.
Martinez, who refused to speak with detectives, was booked into the Travis County Correctional Complex, according to KEYE.
Charges And Custody
Authorities charged Martinez with two counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, both classified as second-degree felonies. Court records list his total bond at $200,000 as the case moves through the Travis County system. The investigation remains open, and police are asking anyone who saw what happened or has additional information to contact investigators.
Passengers And Drivers Renew Safety Concerns
The stabbing has reignited frustration and fear among CapMetro passengers and bus operators, who have been sounding the alarm about violent incidents on the system in recent years. Drivers and transit advocates are again pointing to a high-profile, deadly bus stabbing last year and are pushing for faster rollout of transit police and other safety measures, as reported by FOX 7 Austin. CapMetro says it is cooperating fully with law enforcement and reviewing its onboard safety protocols.
How To Report Tips
Investigators are asking anyone with information about the incident to contact the Austin Police Department's tip line or call CapMetro's GO Line at 512-474-1200. CapMetro's website outlines how riders can report incidents on buses and trains and how operators and passengers can help preserve video for investigators. The agency says it is working closely with police as the case continues.
