Philadelphia police are searching for suspects involved in the tragic shooting of a 77-year-old Nigerian Uber driver, Olatunji Bolaji, and a 22-year-old passenger he was picking up. The incident occurred outside the Byblos restaurant and hookah lounge on 18th Street at around 2 a.m. on Wednesday, April 16, 2025.
According to Chief Inspector Scott Small, the shooting followed a physical altercation between the 22-year-old passenger and two suspects who arrived in a Jeep Grand Cherokee. Surveillance footage shows the suspects approaching the SUV as the passenger entered the backseat. At least one of the suspects fired four shots, striking Bolaji in the head and the passenger in the arm, stomach, and chest.
Despite his injuries, Bolaji managed to drive a short distance before crashing into a light pole on Chestnut Street. He was pronounced dead at the scene, leaving his family heartbroken. The passenger remains in critical condition at a local hospital.
Witnesses described the getaway vehicle as a dark-colored Jeep Grand Cherokee with possible Massachusetts tags. Police are reviewing surveillance footage and offering a $20,000 reward for information leading to an arrest.
The incident has sparked concerns about rideshare driver safety, with advocates like Fabian Romero of the Independent Drivers Guild calling for improved safety protocols. Uber expressed condolences to Bolaji’s family and pledged support for the investigation.
Residents and business owners in the area have voiced their distress over the rising gun violence, emphasizing the need for safer environments in the city.