For Immediate Release June 26, 2025
OPD NEWS:
Public Safety Advisory: OPD Warns of Uptick in Crimes Against Rideshare Drivers
The Oakland Police Department (OPD) is seeing a citywide decrease in crime. However, there’s a recent trend of robberies and attempted carjackings against rideshare drivers. To date, there are three reported cases. Typically, these incidents occur after 9:00 p.m. in the area of 46th Avenue and Foothill Boulevard.
In these recent incidents, unknown suspects requested rides in the area. Once inside the vehicle or upon the driver’s arrival, the suspects claimed an issue with the vehicle and asked the driver to pull over. At that point, the suspect(s) attempt to steal the car or rob the driver.
OPD, along with our law enforcement partners, have arrested two juveniles in relation to two of the cases and are seeking a third identified juvenile suspect in a third case.
OPD is issuing this safety advisory to keep our community informed. We also urge rideshare and delivery drivers to remain alert and practice precautions to protect themselves.
REDUCE YOUR RISK:
- Stay aware of your surroundings when accepting trips.
- Consider placing a GPS tag (such as an AirTag or Tile) in your car as an added precaution.
- Install a dash camera to help record any incidents.
- If a rider requests an unexpected or unsafe stop, trust your instincts — drive to a well-lit, populated area and call 911 if necessary.
The Oakland Police Department is actively investigating these incidents and working diligently to apprehend those responsible. We encourage anyone with information to call the OPD Robbery Section at (510) 238-3326. Working together, we can help make our community safer.
