In a shocking and disturbing incident in Tulsa, Oklahoma, a 42-year-old man was arrested for allegedly slashing a woman’s throat in what police are calling an unprovoked attack on a public bus. The man, identified as Robert J. Rhoades, now faces serious criminal charges as the investigation continues.
What Happened on the Tulsa Bus?
The incident took place around 1:09 p.m. on Sunday at a city bus station near the 300 block of South Cheyenne Avenue in Tulsa. According to the Tulsa Police Department, Rhoades and the 43-year-old female victim had boarded the same bus earlier at a Walmart stop located at 81st and Lewis.
Police say Rhoades sat right behind the woman, and there was no conversation or interaction between the two before the attack. As the bus arrived at the main station, Rhoades allegedly reached forward and sliced the woman’s throat with a knife. He then ran away from the scene on foot.
How Was the Suspect Caught?
Thanks to quick action by witnesses and officers nearby, Rhoades was spotted fleeing the area. Witnesses gave officers a description and direction of travel. Police on bicycles tracked him down at 100 South Denver Avenue and arrested him without any struggle.
When officers searched Rhoades, they found a bloody knife in his pocket and saw bloodstains on his clothes, confirming his connection to the attack.
Victim Undergoes Emergency Surgery
The injured woman was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital, where she underwent emergency surgery. Her injuries were serious, but doctors later said she was stabilized and there is hope for a full recovery.
The police have described this attack as completely unprovoked, as there was no known connection between Rhoades and the victim.
Charges and Ongoing Investigation
Robert J. Rhoades is now facing multiple charges, including assault with a deadly weapon and false impersonation. Additionally, he is being held on a warrant from Missouri as a fugitive from justice.
He is currently in Tulsa County Jail and is being held without bond. Police have said they are waiting for surveillance footage from a camera on the bus to gather more evidence.
So far, there is no confirmed date for his first court appearance.
This shocking incident has raised concerns about public safety on city buses in Tulsa. Authorities acted quickly to capture the suspect, and the victim is thankfully recovering in the hospital.
As the investigation continues, police are working to learn more about what led to this brutal and random act of violence. Updates will be shared as more information becomes available, especially once the bus footage is reviewed and court proceedings begin.
