A San Jose, California bus driver allegedly shot and killed a coworker over an unpaid gambling debt, according to authorities. Duc Minh Bui, 33, was arrested on suspicion of the first-degree murder of Regulus “Reggie” Teotico, 45, a fellow driver for the Valley Transportation Authority (VTA). Authorities believe Bui shot father-of-two Teotico to death on the morning of Sunday, September 22, at the Chaboya Division Yard in San Jose.
When responders arrived, they found the victim bleeding heavily from gunshot injuries. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Bui, who was identified by surveillance video, was arrested shortly afterward near his home. The Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Office stated Monday that evidence suggests Bui is “solely responsible” for the killing.
VTA general manager Carolyn Gonot described Teotico as “a kind, hard-working driver who was well-known amongst his colleagues.” Teotico had been employed with the VTA for 10 years. He and Bui were known to be friends who socialized outside of work.
“We believe the motive had to do with money owed between the two from their betting activities, which had nothing to do with their employment,” Sheriff’s Capt. Sugey Jaimez explained during a news conference Monday. Jaimez added there were “no red flags” on the suspect, who has no criminal history.
The incident has stirred painful memories among VTA employees who are still grappling with a workplace mass shooting three years ago that was the deadliest in Bay Area history. On May 26, 2021, Samuel James Cassidy, a disgruntled electro-mechanic, set his home ablaze before opening fire on colleagues at the VTA railyard in San Jose. Cassidy killed nine men during the event, appearing to select his victims carefully before turning the gun on himself.
County Supervisor Cindy Chavez, chair of the VTA board of directors, reflected on the renewed trauma during Monday’s news conference. “We were rebuilding after the tragic incident of three years ago, and so for many people, this is reliving one of the worst experiences they’ve ever had in their life. That’s why the mental health services and us wrapping our arms around each other is so important.”
A candlelight vigil was held for Teotico on Sunday night, as the community mourned the loss of another member in a tragic act of violence.