MTA mourns bus driver - a former lottery winner - who was shot, killed in Baltimore lot

BALTIMORE -- The Maryland Transit Administration on Thursday said a woman shot and killed this week in an bus lot in South Baltimore was an MTA bus driver. 

Elaine Jackson, 40, was shot multiple times Tuesday afternoon police said. She died in the hospital. 

Detectives are still searching for the suspect.

Jackson was a driver in Baltimore for four years, the agency said. 

"She was a warm, caring individual and a valued member of the team," a spokesperson said in a statement. "MDOT MTA is grateful for her commitment to providing critical transit service and we offer our deepest condolences to her family."

WJZ found a photo and article of Jackson from 2019 when she won $50,000 with the Maryland Lottery. 

Jackson said she'd decided to play her lucky numbers after a trip to the mall with her daughters.

"As you may have heard, MTA operator Elaine Jackson was tragically killed this week," MTA Administrator Holly Arnold said. :She was known as a kind, funny, & caring person. My thoughts are with her family, friends, & all @mtamaryland employees. Thanks to MTA Police & BPD for their efforts in this ongoing investigation."

Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott said police are working to bring justice.

"It's an unspeakable tragedy and BPD is currently working out leads and we hope to be able to bring this person to justice for the family, for the community, for everyone," Mayor Scott said.

The agency said it is providing counseling services to any employee who may need help or support in processing the loss.

"The safety of our employees and riders is MDOT MTA's highest priority," MTA said. 

Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan said the state will provide any resources necessary for the investigation.

"We are all grieving the tragic death of this dedicated public servant," Hogan said. "The First Lady and I extend our condolences to Elaine Jackson's family and all of her colleagues at MTA."  

Baltimore Police and MDOT MTA Police have an ongoing investigation in the shooting. 

Baltimore City Police are investigating 274 homicides since the start of the year.