Kenneth Patterson faces a number of charges, including assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill. Police believe Patterson shot Dante Lamont McMillan, 17, of Landon Street, after an argument broke out among several teenagers in the back of the bus as it approached the traffic light at North Roxboro and Liberty streets.
"When the doors opened, shots were fired," said Matthew Lloyd, one of about 20 passengers, which included children, on the bus at the time. "Everyone hit the ground. The driver went on to the next stop and called 911."
Several suspects ran from the bus before officers arrived, but police apprehended a possible suspect near Canal and Hazel streets. The suspect was taken to the Durham Police Department, but was released after questioning by investigators. Officers determined he was not the shooter and no charges were filed against him.
McMillian was taken to Duke University Hospital, where he underwent surgery for multiple gunshot wounds. He was listed in stable condition Sunday afternoon.
The shooter was described as a black male, standing about 5 feet 8 inches tall and weighing 140 to 150 pounds, with a slender to medium build. He was wearing a black flight jacket, a red T-shirt and jeans.
Saturday's shooting took place more than two weeks after a fatal shooting at Northgate Mall, in which investigators said started as a fight on a DATA bus. In that incident, police say Lamar Bass, 17, shot and killed Lazarren Tyqwan McLean, 16. Bass is still on the run.
Anyone with information about the shooting or Patterson's whereabouts is asked to call the Durham Police Department at (919) 560-4440 or CrimeStoppers at (919) 683-1200.
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