A 77-year-old Nigerian Uber driver, Olatunji W. Bolaji, was fatally shot outside a hookah lounge in Philadelphia, United States.
Bolaji, a resident of Norristown, Pennsylvania, was working around 2 a.m. on Wednesday when he picked up a 22-year-old passenger outside the Byblos Hookah Bar near Rittenhouse Square in Centre City, according to a CBS report on Friday.
Police reported that shortly after Bolaji picked up the young man, another vehicle, a black Jeep Grand Cherokee believed to have Massachusetts license plates, pulled up behind his SUV, and two men exited.
One of the men opened fire, shooting both Bolaji and his passenger.
Despite being shot in the head, Bolaji managed to drive a short distance before crashing into a pole at the intersection of 17th and Chestnut Streets. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
His passenger sustained gunshot wounds to the arm, leg, and stomach and was rushed to Jefferson University Hospital in critical condition.
Police indicated that the shooting was captured on surveillance cameras and are still investigating the motive behind the attack.
Authorities believe a physical altercation may have occurred between the passenger and the suspects prior to the shooting.
Uber has expressed its condolences over the tragic incident, stating, “Our hearts break for the driver’s family and loved ones in the wake of this devastating loss. We’ve reached out to police to offer our support as they work to bring those responsible for this heinous act of violence to justice.”
Neighbors have expressed their sorrow over Bolaji’s death, describing his family as quiet and hardworking.
A long-time family friend remembered Bolaji as a kind and helpful man, a dedicated worker, a loving partner, and a proud father whose son is a college graduate. The friend stated that Bolaji’s family is devastated and seeking justice.
A GoFundMe campaign has been initiated to support Bolaji’s family with funeral and memorial expenses, as well as living and counselling costs during their bereavement.
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