Philadelphia Uber driver, 77, killed in shooting targeting passenger in ‘heinous act of violence’

The tragic murder of Uber driver Olatunji W. Bolaji has shaken the community in Philadelphia. Security footage captured the horrifying moment when Bolaji was targeted by gunmen outside a hookah lounge in downtown Philadelphia. The 77-year-old driver had just picked up a 22-year-old passenger outside the Byblos Hookah Bar when the assailants approached.

In the video, the passenger is seen hugging a woman outside the car as two men suddenly emerged from a Jeep Grand Cherokee with Massachusetts plates. The woman quickly fled as the suspects brandished their guns and closed in on the passenger. Despite the passenger jumping into the SUV, one of the gunmen fired shots, hitting Bolaji in the head and the passenger in multiple areas.

Despite sustaining a gunshot wound to the head, Bolaji managed to drive away but tragically crashed into a light pole a block away. He was pronounced dead at the scene, while the passenger was rushed to Jefferson University Hospital in critical condition. Police indicated that there was a physical altercation between the suspects and the passenger prior to Bolaji arriving to pick up the rider.

The suspects remain at large, and authorities are offering a $20,000 reward for information leading to their arrest and conviction. Bolaji, described as a hard-working and friendly man, leaves behind a son and a partner. His family is devastated by his senseless murder, and Uber has expressed condolences and offered support to law enforcement in apprehending the culprits.

The incident adds to the alarming homicide rate in Philadelphia, with 58 homicides reported since the beginning of 2025. Additionally, there have been 446 shooting incidents resulting in 239 victims as of April 17. The city had a total of 635 shootings and 296 victims in 2024, highlighting the ongoing issue of gun violence in Philadelphia.

The community mourns the loss of Bolaji and calls for justice to be served in his memory. The investigation into the shooting continues, and authorities urge anyone with information to come forward to help bring the perpetrators to justice. The tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the violence plaguing the city and the need for urgent action to address the root causes of such senseless acts.