NYC Rideshare Driver Allegedly Carjacked at Gunpoint by Masked Assailants After Ride Refusal

In a shocking incident last week, a rideshare driver in New York City fell victim to a carjacking at gunpoint. The ordeal unfolded when four masked individuals demanded a ride, as reported by authorities.

The frightening event occurred in the early hours of March 23, around 1:30 a.m., with the 51-year-old driver stationed in his Toyota Highlander SUV in Lower Manhattan.

According to officials, the situation escalated when the driver declined the group’s request for a specific destination. At this point, one of the men allegedly pulled out a gun and forcefully ejected the driver from his vehicle.

The suspects then commandeered the SUV, making their escape to Newark, New Jersey. Fortunately, the vehicle was eventually located, as reported by the New York Post.

The masked quartet was also captured entering a Lower Manhattan bodega. (NYPD Crimestoppers)

The suspects were last reported at large, with police continuing their search for the brazen crew.

Officials released video showing the masked suspects entering what appeared to be a bodega, all wearing black hooded sweatshirts pulled up and black face masks.

Masked suspects enter a Lower Manhattan bodega on March 23, 2026. (NYPD Crimestoppers)

It was not immediately clear whether the victim worked for a specific rideshare company, but the vehicle had TLC plates — specialized license plates issued by the New York City Taxi & Limousine Commission required for any ridesharing vehicles, including Uber and Lyft — the Post reported. 

Police share footage of masked suspects linked to a NYC rideshare carjacking on March 23, 2026. (NYPD Crimestoppers)

Police confirmed the driver was not injured in the ordeal, the outlet added.

Fox News reached out to NYPD Crimestoppers for more information.