Suspect at Large After Fresno Uber Driver Shot, Police say
Fresno police are searching for a suspect following a shooting that critically injured an Uber driver early Friday morning. The driver, whose name has not been released, was transported to a local hospital with gunshot wounds and remains in critical condition.
The incident underscores growing safety concerns for rideshare drivers, prompting calls for increased vetting of passengers and the wider adoption of in-vehicle safety measures. While Uber and Lyft offer emergency features within their apps, drivers and law enforcement officials say more preventative steps are needed to protect those working in the gig economy.
according to police, the shooting occurred while the driver was working. The female passenger involved is currently not considered a suspect, but authorities are actively seeking details regarding the whereabouts of the alleged shooter, identified as Session.
“When I read this story, it was immediate shock that could’ve been me,” said Shanker, an uber driver for approximately ten years. He expressed hope for enhanced safety protocols, specifically advocating for “better vetting of the riders who come in.”
Fresno police are recommending rideshare drivers install dashcams as a potential deterrent to violence. john Heffron, a driver for both Uber and Lyft, has already implemented this measure. “It’s thought that maybe a passenger would see that he’s on video and maybe will behave himself if he’s thinking or else,” Heffron stated.
Investigators are currently reviewing footage from the victim’s dashcam.
Anyone with information regarding Session’s location is urged to contact Fresno Police or submit an anonymous tip through Valley Crime Stoppers at https://valleycrimestoppers.org/submit-a-tip/.
