Charges Filed After Dozens of Shots Fired at Teen During Bus Dismissal in Duquesne, Suspect Jamar Saunders Arrested – Full 2026 Update

Duquesne school bus ambush – In a terrifying ambush that has shaken the Duquesne, Pennsylvania, community, a 15-year-old high school student was targeted with dozens of gunshots as he walked home from his school bus on Monday afternoon, January 5, 2026.

The brazen attack near Kennedy Avenue and Auriles Street involved two suspects, who fired approximately 26 rounds, miraculously grazing the teen only on his elbow.

Following a swift investigation using high-definition surveillance footage and a SWAT standoff, authorities arrested 21-year-old Jamar Saunders, charging him with nine serious counts including attempted homicide. The second gunman remains at large. This post breaks down every key detail: the timeline, victim status, arrest, charges, weapons seized, ongoing hunt for the accomplice, and community impact.

Timeline of Duquesne School Bus Ambush: A Planned Attack During Bus Dismissal

The incident unfolded in broad daylight, during the vulnerable school dismissal period:

• Bus Drop-Off: Around 2:30 p.m., students from West Mifflin Area High School were dropped off near Kennedy Avenue and Auriles Street in Duquesne.
• The Setup: Surveillance from nearby businesses captured two men sitting on a porch, appearing to wait for the target.
• The Pursuit: As the 15-year-old walked past, both suspects immediately stood and followed him.
• The Shooting: The teen tripped while fleeing. One gunman reportedly fired at close range, while shots from both men totaled 26 shell casings, scattered roughly seven blocks from the former Duquesne High School site.

The rapid response by Allegheny County Police and local officers demonstrated the effective use of technology in identifying suspects quickly.

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The Victim’s Condition: A Miraculous Escape

Despite the barrage of gunfire, the teen survived:

• Injuries: Only a graze wound to the elbow, treated for a laceration.
• Close Call: Court documents confirm the teen was fired upon at close range while on the ground.
• School Response: Superintendent Sue Mariani sent a letter to families emphasizing safety and confirming heightened security measures at bus stops for the week.

The student’s quick thinking likely prevented a more serious outcome.

Arrest of Primary Suspect: Jamar Saunders

Law enforcement acted quickly to apprehend the primary suspect:

• SWAT Standoff: Officers surrounded a home on Auriles Street shortly after the attack.
• The Arrest: Jamar Saunders, 21, of Turtle Creek, was found hiding inside and taken into custody without incident.
• Weapons Seized:
  • 9mm pistol hidden in a plastic clothing bin.
  • .40 caliber handgun reported stolen in November 2025.

Ballistics confirmed both weapons were used in the attack, linking Saunders directly to the shooting.

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Full List of Charges Against Jamar Saunders

Allegheny County Police filed nine serious counts, reflecting the severity of the crime:

1. Criminal Attempted Homicide – For firing at the teen from close range.
2. Aggravated Assault – For causing bodily injury.
3. Criminal Conspiracy – Coordinating with the unidentified second shooter.
4. Firearms Violations – Possession by a prohibited person and lack of license.
5. Receiving Stolen Property – The .40 caliber handgun.
6. Endangering the Welfare of Children
7. Criminal Mischief – Damage caused by gunfire.

Saunders remains in custody pending a preliminary hearing.

Ongoing Investigation: Hunt for the Second Suspect & Motive

As of January 7, 2026:

• Unidentified Accomplice: The second gunman seen on the porch remains at large.
• Motive: Police have not publicly confirmed a motive; possible local disputes or gang-related feuds are under investigation.
• Evidence Collection: Surveillance footage and ballistics were key in linking Saunders to the crime.

Authorities continue to appeal to the public for tips to locate the second suspect.

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Community Impact and Safety Measures

This brazen daylight attack has rattled Duquesne and West Mifflin:

• Heightened Security: Extra patrols and monitoring at bus stops.
• Parent Concerns: Families demand answers and reassurance about dismissal safety.
• Broader Context: Highlights ongoing concerns about youth violence in the area.

Superintendent Mariani reassured residents:
“Student safety is our highest priority.”

Key Takeaways

1. Rapid Law Enforcement Action: SWAT and surveillance led to the arrest of the primary suspect within hours.
2. Youth Violence Awareness: The incident highlights the dangers near school zones.
3. Ongoing Search: The second suspect is still at large, keeping authorities vigilant.
4. Miraculous Survival: Despite being fired upon at close range, the teen survived with minor injuries.

FAQs

Who is Jamar Saunders?

21-year-old resident of Turtle Creek, Pennsylvania, and the primary suspect in the Duquesne school bus ambush.

What charges is he facing?

Nine counts, including criminal attempted homicide, aggravated assault, criminal conspiracy, firearms violations, receiving stolen property, endangering children, and criminal mischief.

What happened to the student?

The 15-year-old teen was grazed on the elbow and suffered minor lacerations, surviving the attack.

Has the second suspect been apprehended?

No, the second gunman remains unidentified and at large.

How is the community responding?

Security has increased around bus stops, and parents are advised to remain vigilant while law enforcement continues investigations.