Uber Driver Arrested After Video Shows Punching Passenger in Dallas

A Dallas Uber driver is facing charges after being captured on video punching a 68-year-old passenger in the back of the head following a dispute over legroom. The incident, which unfolded Wednesday in the city's Design District, left the passenger, Suleman Gauba, with minor injuries.

According to authorities, the altercation began when Gauba and his wife requested an Uber to take them to a local Walmart. Upon entering the vehicle, Gauba complained to the driver about the lack of legroom in the rear seat. The driver, whose identity has not been released, responded by canceling the ride and asking Gauba to exit the car.

Uber Driver Arrested After Video Shows Punching Passenger in Dallas

As Gauba and his wife exited the vehicle, the driver allegedly approached Gauba from behind and punched him in the back of the head. Surveillance footage obtained by local news station KDFW captured the incident. In the video, the driver can be seen striking Gauba with a closed fist, causing him to fall to the ground.

Gauba was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment of minor injuries. He told KDFW that he was in shock following the attack.

Uber Driver Arrested After Video Shows Punching Passenger in Dallas

"I was thinking, you know, what's happened with me? Why [did] he hit me?" Guaba told the news station.

The Dallas Police Department confirmed the incident and said a preliminary investigation revealed that Gauba and the driver had engaged in an argument prior to the assault. The suspect, described as a Black male last seen wearing a red shirt and dark pants, fled the scene and remains at large.

Uber Driver Arrested After Video Shows Punching Passenger in Dallas

Uber, the ride-sharing company, did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Gauba's attorney, Andrew Gerstle, said his client is considering legal action against both the driver and Uber.

"This was an unprovoked and cowardly attack on an elderly man," Gerstle said in a statement. "We will pursue all legal options to hold the driver and Uber accountable for their negligence."

Uber Driver Arrested After Video Shows Punching Passenger in Dallas

The incident has sparked outrage online, with many users condemning the driver's actions and calling for his arrest. Uber has a long history of dealing with violence involving its drivers and passengers. In 2019, the company implemented a zero-tolerance policy for physical violence, but critics argue that more needs to be done to ensure the safety of its users.

Gauba's assault underscores the importance of passenger safety in the ride-sharing industry. As ride-sharing services continue to grow in popularity, companies like Uber have a responsibility to implement robust safety protocols and to take swift action against drivers who engage in violent behavior.