VTA Shooter Owed Victim Thousands in Gambling Debt

Earlier this week, we reported on the case of the Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) bus driver who was fatally shot by a coworker over an alleged gambling debt.

On Wednesday, the suspect accused of the deadly shooting at VTA’s Chaboya Division Yard appeared in court for his initial arraignment. 

The 33-year-old is facing a murder charge with a firearm enhancement with “several aggravating factors that are alleged,” according to Santa Clara County deputy district attorney Michael Gilman.

Suspect Did Not Enter Plea, Hid Behind Attorney

During the brief hearing, the defendant identified with the initials D.M.B. did not enter a plea and remained silent behind his public defender. 

Prosecutors allege that the man owed the victim identified with the initials R.T. thousands of dollars in gambling debt and had gone to meet him at the Chaboya bus yard on South 7th Street on Sunday while carrying a gun.

According to Gilman, the suspect legally owned three firearms. However, investigators are still trying to determine whether the gun used in the crime was registered to his name or not.

No Allegation of Premeditation 

Court documents have revealed that a witness overheard the two men conversing outside their vehicles before hearing three gunshots. 

Investigators believe the suspect shot the victim three times before he flew the scene in a white Nissan Versa.

Three .40-caliber shell casings were discovered at the scene.

“There’s no allegation in this complaint that the murder was committed in a premeditated fashion,” said Gilman, suggesting the investigation is ongoing and charges could be adjusted as more evidence emerges. 

Nonetheless, legal analysts are already weighing the possibility of a first-degree murder charge, depending on whether the shooting was premeditated or randomly occurred during a sudden quarrel between the two men.

A Video That “Will Speak Volumes”

The court and investigators are now looking closely at surveillance footage captured at the bus yard. 

The said footage is reportedly showing the suspect pulling a gun out of a bag before firing at the victim. 

Cardoza emphasized the critical role this video evidence could play in determining the outcome of the case. 

“The world has changed. And that video will speak volumes,” believes KTVU legal analyst Michael Cardoza. 

“One would think, if you’re coming armed, you’re going to be using that gun. That would favor first-degree murder, as it suggests premeditation,” said Cardoza. 

Cardoza also raised the possibility that the case could shift toward a manslaughter charge if evidence suggests a spontaneous altercation.

If convicted on the current charges, D.M.B. could face 50 years to life in prison. 

Next, he will appear in court on December 10, when more details are expected to come to light regarding the precise circumstances that led to the fatal encounter.