A 77-year-old Nigerian immigrant and Uber driver, Olatunji Bolaji, was shot and killed early Wednesday morning while attempting to pick up a passenger outside a popular hookah lounge in Philadelphia.
The incident happened around 2 a.m. near the Byblos restaurant and lounge on 18th Street. Bolaji was inside his black SUV when the shooting began. He had just arrived to pick up a 22-year-old passenger who had exited the lounge moments earlier.
Authorities say there was a physical altercation just before the shots were fired. Surveillance footage shows the younger man saying goodbye to others outside the SUV when two attackers ran toward him. As the passenger entered the back seat, a dark-colored Jeep Grand Cherokee pulled up. Two men got out and confronted the passenger. One of them opened fire, shooting four times.
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One bullet reportedly pierced the headrest and struck Bolaji in the back of the head. Despite the injury, he managed to drive a short distance before crashing into a pole on Chestnut Street. He was found partially outside the vehicle, already dead from the gunshot wound.
The passenger suffered multiple gunshot wounds to the arm, stomach, and chest and remains in critical condition at a hospital.
The suspects fled in the Jeep, which was last seen heading toward Sansom Street. Witnesses described it as a newer model with dark coloring and possibly Massachusetts license plates.
Friends, family, and fellow drivers are mourning Bolaji, describing him as a hardworking father trying to earn a living. Rideshare drivers in the area are calling for better protection, especially for those who work night shifts.
Local residents and business owners expressed shock and sadness, noting the normally busy and lively nature of the neighborhood. Many said the incident highlights the increasing risks faced by gig workers and the need for improved safety measures.
Police continue to search for the suspects and are asking anyone with information or video footage to come forward.
