Orange County, Florida – What started as a routine Lyft ride on Saturday evening turned into a terrifying ordeal after a driver allegedly pulled out a handgun and threatened to kill his passengers, according to the Orlando Police Department.
Incident Unfolds on TG Lee Boulevard
Authorities said the confrontation began around 7 p.m. when officers responded to a disturbance call at Airport Liquor, located on TG Lee Boulevard off Semoran Boulevard in Orlando.
The driver, identified as 30-year-old Joshua Ortega, was reportedly operating a Lyft vehicle under a female account name when his two passengers began to notice concerning behavior.
According to the arrest report, Ortega was speeding, driving the wrong way, and appeared impaired, allegedly smelling of alcohol and marijuana. The passengers told investigators they became frightened by his actions and repeatedly asked him to stop the vehicle.
After ignoring their requests, Ortega finally stopped at a gas station, where the situation escalated.
Passengers Seek Help and Call Police
When the passengers refused to pay for the incomplete trip and went inside Airport Liquor to call the police, Ortega allegedly followed them inside in an aggressive manner, authorities said.
A store clerk reportedly stepped in to de-escalate the situation, but moments later, Ortega pulled out a handgun, cocked it, and threatened, “I will kill you.”
The clerk and passengers ran for safety, retreating inside the store as witnesses called for help. Multiple witnesses at the scene confirmed Ortega’s threatening behavior and brandishing of a firearm, police said.
Police Locate Suspect and Recover Gun
Responding officers quickly located Ortega driving a white Ford Explorer matching witness descriptions. Police conducted a felony stop, detaining Ortega without incident.
During a search of the vehicle, officers discovered a Taurus G3C 9mm handgun tucked under the driver’s seat.
Charges and Ongoing Investigation
Joshua Ortega, 30, was arrested and booked on a charge of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, according to the Orlando Police Department.
Authorities have not said whether Ortega possessed a valid firearm permit or if the weapon was legally owned. Police also noted that Lyft was operating the driver’s account under a female profile, raising questions about whether Ortega was authorized to use it.
Investigators are reviewing surveillance footage from Airport Liquor and nearby businesses to further corroborate witness accounts.
Community Concerns and Lyft Response
Incidents like this have reignited community conversations about ride-share safety, with many passengers urging greater accountability for drivers and stricter background verification.
Lyft has not released a statement regarding Ortega’s arrest, though the company’s policy states it has a zero-tolerance stance on violence or threats. The platform also prohibits anyone other than the registered driver from using their account.
Residents say the situation could have ended far worse if not for the quick response from police and the courage of bystanders who reported the incident.
Call for Awareness
The Orlando Police Department continues to investigate the case and encourages anyone with additional information or video footage of the event to come forward.
If you witnessed the incident or have details to share, contact the Orlando Police Department or Crimeline at 1-800-423-TIPS.
What do you think should be done to improve ride-share safety after incidents like this? Share your thoughts, suggestions, and experiences in the comments below — your perspective matters in making communities safer.
