By Cesar Antonio Nucum Jr

SAN JOSE — Three years after a disgruntled employee of a major San Francisco Bay Area transport system shot and killed nine co-workers, another horrific shooting involving two co-workers happened that traumatized the same company.

According to investigators, on the night of September 20, Valley Transit Authority (VTA) ten-year bus operator Regulus “Reggie’ Teotico, 45, a Filipino, was shot thrice allegedly by another bus operator Duc Minh Bui, 33, at a VTA bus yard after a reported dispute over a gambling debt.

This comes after the May 2021 tragic shooting at a VTA facility by former mechanic Sam Cassidy that resulted to the death of nine employees, one of them a Filipino American. Cassidy then shot himself triggering horrendous memories in the company. 

KTVU reported that Bui had a brief court appearance Wednesday, September 25, where he did not enter a plea. Bui is currently in jail without bail. The 33-year-old new father was charged with first degree murder with an enhancement for using a gun and is scheduled to be back in court in December 10. He faces 50 years to life imprisonment  if convicted.     

Prosecutors stated that suspect Bui went to Shibuya yard on South Seventh Street to pay thousands of dollars in gambling debt he owed Teotico and armed with a gun.

A witness and friend of Teotico claimed that he saw the two men outside their cars talking and then he heard three shots that supported the report of investigators that indicated that Bui shot Teotico three times before leaving the  VTA yard crime scene in a white Nissan Versa.     

Investigators disclosed CCTV video showed Bui pulling a gun out of a bag and shooting Teotico. Deputies recovered 340 caliber shells at the scene. 

According to Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Office Captain Sugey Jaimez, Bui and Teotico participated in many betting activities outside of work.

“Most importantly, although this investigation is still ongoing, we believe the motive had to do with money owed between the two from their betting activities that had nothing to do with their employment,” Captain Jaimez said.

Santa Clara County Sheriff Bob Jonsen described the shooting incident as “a senseless crime, without question.”

“And while it was an isolated, targeted event, we recognize the profound impact it has had on all of us,” Jonsen said.

VTA officials and employees also believed that the motive of the killing was personal and had to do with money owed between the two from their betting activities. Both were said to be always very friendly, and they never saw either man get mad.

The tragic incident has traumatized VTA employees over again and VTA is providing grief counselors for all employees while security was  beefed up with the sheriff’s transit division immediately assembling a patrol safety plan to increase law enforcement footprint throughout the VTA system.    

VTA Chief Executive Officer Carolyn Gonot described Teotico as a “kind, hard-working driver who was well known amongst his colleagues.”

“Regis was a father to two teenage children and everyone at VTA extends their deepest condolences to Regis’ family and friends,” Gonot added.

A memorial was held for Teotico at Orchard City Banquet Hall on Oct. 10 before he was buried. 

The obituary for Teotico (https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/san-jose-ca/regulus-teotico-12006012) read:

In Loving Memory of Regulus Teotico

OBITUARY

Regulus Teotico

August 13, 1979 – September 20, 2024

IN THE CARE OF

Oak Hill Funeral Home & Memorial Park

“It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Regulus Teotico, a beloved father, son, brother, cousin, nephew and friend. He passed away suddenly on September 20, 2024.

Regus was a devoted father to his two cherished children, Reese and Cali, who were the light of his life. As a brother and cousin to Vega, Rael, Rafael and Theresa, he was a lifelong partner, confidant, and best friend. His love for his family was immense, and he brought warmth, laughter, and joy into their lives every day.

Known for his boundless generosity and his sharp sense of humor, Regus could light up any room. He had a rare gift of making everyone feel special, and his infectious laughter was a constant source of joy for those who were lucky enough to know him. Whether through a thoughtful gesture or spirited dance move, he touched the lives of so many, earning many beloved nicknames.

Regus had a love for good food. Cooking was a way of bringing people together. Whether it was in the kitchen, behind a grill, or behind his new Traeger smoker, Regus poured his heart into every dish he created – especially his uniquely named sauces. For Regus, a meal was more than just food; it was an expression of love, a chance to connect, and a way of making every gathering memorable.

Regus had an uncanny ability to connect with people. His friends became family, and his family meant the world to him. To be in his presence was to feel seen, valued, and loved. He will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate to share in his life.

He is survived by his two beloved children, Reese and Cali Teotico; loving father Reynaldo Teotico; loving mother Raquel Joe; and devoted sister, Vega DeLeonibus.

Regus will be forever remembered for his kindness, humor, and the incredible love he shared with the world. His legacy lives on in the hearts of all who knew him.”

A reception for friends and family was held at Orchard City Banquet Hall October 10 that coincided to the victory of the Teotico’s favorite team San Francisco 49ers beating Seattle 36-24. 

The family requested that  donations be made to their Go Fund Me account Donate to In Loving Memory of Regulus Teotico, organized by Theresa Garrido instead of flowers.

The amount that would be collected will go toward immediate family support, funeral services and to alleviate some of the financial strain during this incredibly challenging period while we grieve and heal.As of press time, $24,089 was raised of the $25,000 goal from·126 donations.Captions: