Footage of a shooting that ended with a 77-year-old Uber driver being killed and his passenger critically injured has gone viral. The Philadelphia Police Homicide Unit is probing the incident that occurred last Wednesday, and the viral surveillance video is now central to the investigation.
The early-morning shooting occurred after 2 a.m. on 18th Street, where Uber driver Olatunji W. Bolaji was picking up a passenger, according to authorities. Police said Bolaji was sitting in his parked black Chevy Suburban as he waited for the passenger.
In the footage, four individuals exit the building and approach the vehicle. Among the group is a 22-year-old male who opens the door to get in. However, two men sprint towards him and open fire. As the suspect flees the scene, the Chevy Suburban can be seen driving away with the passenger inside.
According to the police reports, Bolaji sustained a gunshot wound to the head. However, he managed to drive a short distance before his vehicle veered onto the kerb at Chestnut Street and crashed into a light pole. When paramedics arrived at the scene, he was pronounced dead. His passenger suffered gunshot wounds to the arm, abdomen, and leg. Since the deadly incident, he has been hospitalised in critical condition.
According to NBC10, detectives believe that the shooting stemmed from an earlier altercation involving the passenger and the shooters. The authorities have launched a manhunt for the suspects, who reportedly escaped in a dark-coloured Jeep Grand Cherokee that had Massachusetts licence plates. A $20,000 reward is being offered for tips that result in a breakthrough in the case and lead to an arrest and conviction.
The murder of Bolaji, a Norristown resident and long-time Uber driver, has devastated his family and community. Neighbours and friends described him as a kind-hearted, hard-working man who was very helpful in the community. Bolaji, a father of a college graduate, was also described as a devoted husband and father.
Uber released a statement expressing condolences and added that it is cooperating with the police to “bring those responsible for this heinous act of violence to justice.”
A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to support Bolaji’s family during this difficult time. Donations will cover funeral expenses, temporary living costs, and grief counselling for loved ones.