A tragic shooting in the early hours of April 15 has left a 77-year-old Uber driver dead and his passenger critically injured, following a violent encounter outside a hookah lounge in Philadelphia.
The driver, identified as Olatunji W. Bolaji of Norristown, had arrived outside Byblos Hookah Bar just before 2 a.m. to pick up a rider. As the 22-year-old passenger entered the vehicle, two men reportedly stepped out of another car and opened fire on Bolaji’s vehicle, striking both him and the passenger multiple times, according to law enforcement sources.
Philadelphia Chief Inspector Scott Small stated that Bolaji attempted to flee the scene by driving away but ultimately crashed shortly afterward. Emergency responders arrived quickly and rendered aid, but Bolaji—described by loved ones as a devoted father and partner—was pronounced dead at the scene. His passenger, who sustained gunshot wounds to the arm, leg, and abdomen, remains hospitalized in critical condition.
Investigators believe the shooting was connected to a confrontation between the suspects and the passenger moments before the attack. “It seems there was a physical altercation right before shots were fired,” Small said. “The evidence suggests that someone in the car may have been specifically targeted.”
The suspects fled the scene in what authorities believe to be a Jeep Grand Cherokee with Massachusetts license plates. As of now, no arrests have been made, and police continue to pursue leads. A $20,000 reward is being offered for information leading to an arrest.
The devastating incident has left Bolaji’s family and community in mourning. A family friend described the loss as “heartbreaking,” emphasizing the need for justice in what they called a senseless act of violence.
In a statement, Uber expressed its condolences and vowed to assist in the investigation. “Our hearts break for the driver’s family and loved ones in the wake of this devastating loss,” the company said. “We are in contact with authorities and offering our full support.”
The Philadelphia Police Department continues to seek information and urges anyone who may have witnessed the event or has knowledge about the suspects to come forward.
