Authorities in California have reported that two teenagers allegedly misused a Waymo robotaxi for more than just a ride. The teens engaged in target practice while consuming alcohol, but their antics were cut short thanks to the automated vehicle’s intervention.
While traversing San Mateo on Monday afternoon, the self-driving vehicle company noticed that the teens were possibly drinking and shooting from inside the car. Police were soon alerted, according to a report by NBC.
The robotaxi eventually halted, which allowed police to determine that the teens had been drinking and firing Orbeez water beads from within the vehicle.
The San Mateo Police Department shared on social media, “Though inventive, using toy guns, water guns, and BB guns can be quite dangerous, particularly to those who might not recognize them right away.”
They continued, “Handling these items can incite fear in onlookers or those without a clear view. Rapidly releasing projectiles can cause significant harm. Additionally, underage drinking compounds the poor decisions. Although, choosing the Waymo was likely the only prudent choice, as driving under the influence could have turned out far worse.”
In another bizarre Waymo-related crime, San Francisco cops are still hunting a yoga pants thief who allegedly used a driverless Jaguar as a getaway car after swiping merchandise from a Marina District yoga studio in January.
Despite obtaining a search warrant for Waymo footage, investigators have been unable to identify the suspect because interior video had already been deleted and exterior footage blurred faces for privacy.
“It’s highly unusual in the first place that a Waymo is even used by a suspect,” Sgt. Tim Faye said. “It was disappointing that the internal video was not able to lead to the recognition of a suspect.”
Last month another Waymo mishap made headlines when a San Francisco passenger found himself in an unintended police chase after his driverless taxi barreled through a freeway construction zone.
“It went through the cones and then sped up straight away,” rider Elliot Slade said after the robotaxi ignored barriers and drew the attention of patrol officers.
The incident was one of more than a dozen similar construction-zone blunders that prompted Waymo to recall more than 3,800 vehicles and temporarily limit freeway service.