News Releases

If convicted as charged, Winston Apolinario Rivera faces 35 years to life in prison.

COMMERCE, CA- Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón announced today that a man has been charged with murder in the shooting death of a male passenger on a Metro Line 108 bus in Commerce.

“This tragic and senseless shooting claimed the life of a beloved husband and father innocently riding on a Metro bus,” District Attorney Gascón said. “Our hearts go out to the victim’s family during this incredibly difficult time, and we will provide all the support we can as they navigate through this painful ordeal.

“This heartbreaking incident comes on the heels of recent violent acts targeting innocent Metro passengers and a driver. Such acts of violence are absolutely unacceptable, and we will hold accountable those who perpetrate these heinous crimes. Our community deserves to feel safe, and we are committed to pursuing justice for all victims and ensuring that those responsible face the full consequences of their actions.”

Winston Apolinario Rivera (dob 3/24/1994) was charged with one count of murder in case 24CJCF03163. He also faces a special allegation of the use of a firearm in the commission of a crime. If convicted as charged, he faces 35 years to life in prison. Rivera’s arraignment is set for today, Dept. 30 of the Foltz Criminal Justice Center.

On May 17 at 4:49 p.m., Juan Luis Gomez-Ramirez was riding on a Metro bus on the 6200 block of Slauson Avenue, when Rivera entered and sat behind him. As the bus came to a stop, the defendant allegedly walked to the rear exit, stopped behind Gomez-Ramirez, pointed a gun at his head and shot, instantly killing him.

The defendant exited the bus and ran from the location. Deputies responded and discovered Rivera under a train near 6109 Peachtree, Commerce, where he was arrested. The case is being investigated by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.