An Uber driver in California shared video of what he called a very scary ride and one which seems to have ended the career of a Taco Bell manager.
Edward Caban, who drives in Costa Mesa, said he installed a camera in his car because of past issues with customers, but he never expected to capture such a disturbing attack.
He asked his passenger, Benjamin Golden, to leave his car for behaving erratically, but Golden can be heard on camera as refused to exit and insisted the driver transports him.
Then he angrily can be seen striking out at Caban; he beat him around the head from the back seat, and then you see him reach over the seat.
The driver sprayed him with pepper spray. The suspect, Golden, was arrested at the scene.
Golden, who was employed as a Taco Bell marketing brand manager, has been banned from using the ride sharing service for life, according to a spokesperson with Uber, reports KCBS.
Taco Bell released a statement: “Given the behavior of the individual, it is clear he can no longer work for us. We have also offered and encouraged him to seek professional help.”
Golden has been charged with assault and public intoxication.
Caban said he wanted to post the video so people could understand some of the challenges that Uber drivers have, and said this kind of thing happens frequently.
Police said rider Golden could face more charges. An Uber spokeswoman said the organization is glad Caban is okay. Drivers are educated on safety as part of the employment process. The company stated drivers are told to call 911 immediately if there is a problem, according to Uber.
