In a disturbing incident in New York City, a 25-year-old Bronx resident, Mame Gueye, allegedly assaulted a taxi driver before stealing his cab and crashing it into a parked car after a joyride. The incident occurred on Monday night at East 23rd Street and Lexington Avenue.
According to the New York Police Department, the altercation began when Gueye's payment card was declined while trying to pay his fare. This led to an argument with the 47-year-old taxi driver, who then asked Gueye to exit the vehicle. Instead of complying, Gueye reportedly pushed the driver to the ground, struck him in the torso, and proceeded to choke him before taking control of the taxi and driving away.
Police officers located the stolen cab on the Upper East Side after it collided with a parked car several miles away. Gueye attempted to flee but was apprehended at 79th Street and Park Avenue following a brief foot chase.
Gueye now faces multiple charges, including robbery, grand larceny involving an auto, driving while intoxicated, criminal obstruction of breathing, aggravated unlicensed operation involving alcohol, third-degree assault, and obstructing governmental administration. This is not the first time Gueye has faced legal trouble, as he was previously arrested in March 2023 on suspicion of driving while intoxicated.
The incident serves as a reminder of the dangers of driving under the influence and the importance of resolving conflicts peacefully. The taxi driver, who was a victim of this violent act, is fortunate to have survived the assault. The authorities are working to ensure that justice is served in this case.