A Florida rideshare driver has been taken into custody following allegations that he violently assaulted and threatened a passenger during a trip, according to the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office. Authorities say the incident, which occurred in October 2025, involved disturbing acts that left the victim fearing for her life.
Law enforcement officials identified the suspect as Joaquin Mena Vazquez, a 27-year-old Lyft driver. According to a sheriff’s office press release, Vazquez picked up a female passenger on October 8, 2025, as part of a scheduled rideshare trip. During the drive, he allegedly diverted from the expected route and pulled into a grassy area, where he stopped the vehicle under suspicious circumstances.
Investigators allege that Vazquez then exited the driver’s seat, climbed into the back of the vehicle, and began choking the woman while making explicit threats to kill her. Authorities said the attack occurred inside the car, leaving the victim trapped and in immediate danger. The situation reportedly escalated quickly, causing the passenger to fear she would not survive the encounter.
According to statements provided to police, the victim was eventually able to persuade Vazquez to stop the assault. That brief opportunity allowed her to escape from the vehicle and seek help. Sheriff Chad Chronister later praised the woman’s bravery in coming forward, stating that her actions may have prevented future harm to other unsuspecting riders.
“This victim only wanted to get home safely, yet she instead endured violence and terror,” Chronister said in a public statement. He emphasized that predatory behavior, particularly involving individuals entrusted with passenger safety, would not be tolerated in the community.
As part of the investigation, detectives uncovered two prior complaints filed by other Lyft passengers alleging inappropriate conduct by Vazquez. Authorities confirmed that those earlier reports are now under renewed review to determine whether additional criminal behavior occurred and whether further charges may be warranted.
Lyft also issued a statement addressing the allegations, calling the reported behavior “appalling.” The company confirmed that Vazquez was permanently removed from the Lyft platform and that representatives attempted to contact the victim to offer support. Lyft officials added that they are cooperating fully with law enforcement as the investigation continues.
Vazquez was formally arrested on January 29 and charged with battery by strangulation and false imprisonment. He remains in custody as the legal process moves forward. The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office has not released additional details, but officials reiterated their commitment to holding offenders accountable and ensuring public safety, particularly in cases involving rideshare services and passenger trust.
