We are shattered to share that our sister, Caitlin Stup, was taken from us on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, in a sudden and senseless act of violence in west Houston. At just 25 years old, Caitlin’s life was cut short, leaving her family, friends, and community devastated.
The incident occurred on a METRO bus near Walnut Bend at Richmond Avenue around 2:32 p.m. According to officials, the suspect boarded the bus during a busy moment when passengers were getting on and off. Almost immediately, chaos unfolded. The man produced a firearm and, in the midst of the disturbance, Caitlin—an innocent bystander—was struck in the head by a bullet.
Witnesses described the scene as terrifying, with passengers scrambling for safety as the suspect’s actions endangered everyone on board. Caitlin managed to exit the bus after being shot, but her injuries were severe. Emergency responders rushed her to the hospital, where doctors fought to save her life. Despite their efforts, Caitlin succumbed to her injuries later that day.
Another passenger was also injured in the shooting, underscoring the indiscriminate nature of the violence. Police quickly secured the area, interviewing witnesses and gathering evidence to piece together the sequence of events. Investigators are working to determine the motive behind the attack and to bring justice for Caitlin and the other victim.
For Caitlin’s family, the grief is immeasurable. She was a young woman full of promise, whose kindness and laughter touched everyone she met. Her sudden death is not only a personal tragedy but also a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the devastating impact of violence on innocent people.
We are shattered by this loss and ask for respect and privacy as we grieve. Caitlin’s memory will live on in the hearts of her loved ones, a beacon of light extinguished far too soon. Her story is now one of resilience and remembrance, and her family will continue to honor her by carrying forward the love she gave so freely.