A 77 year old Nigerian Uber driver, Olatunji W. Bolaji was shot dead outside a hookah lounge in Philadelphia, United States (US).
The e-hailing company revealed that the 77-year-old was killed on Thursday, April 16 around 2a.m after he picked picked up a passenger near the Byblos Hookah Bar in Rittenhouse Square, Philadelphia.
A black Jeep Grand Cherokee with Massachusetts license plates had pulled up behind Bolaji’s SUV shortly after the pickup.
Two men got out of the jeep and one of them opened fire, hitting 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.
The passenger suffered gunshot wounds to his arm, leg, and stomach and was transported to Jefferson University Hospital in critical condition.
Uber also expressed condolences to the family of Bolaji.
“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,” the e-hailing company said.