Florida Teen charged with murder in Miami Lyft Driver shooting
A 17-year-old’s alleged murder of a Lyft driver in Florida has reignited national outrage over rideshare safety. As police search for answers and the community mourns, the case is fueling urgent calls for stricter protections for drivers and passengers alike.
A tragic occurrence took place on May 24, 2025, in Panama City Beach, Florida when 17-year-old Brayden Raul Gomez was taken into custody on suspicion of killing a Lyft driver while on a ride. Just after 2:24 a.m. local time, the Bay County Sheriff's Office got a report of a shooting on Wildwood Road and Emerald Cove Street. When deputies arrived, they found a victim with a gunshot wound in the road, and their vehicle approximately 100 yards away. The victim is believed to have been the Lyft driver who was taken to area hospitals where they died from their injuries. Authorities were able to identify Gomez as the accused suspect and charged him with an open count of murder.
A witness saw Gomez "firing while he fled" the scene of the shooting. The suspect allegedly climbed over a fence to escape the area and enter a neighboring area. Investigators went through the crime scene and discovered blood and bullet holes in the vehicle. Gomez was arrested shortly thereafter, and is being held at the Bay County Jail.
Lyft responds to fatal shooting, investigation and safety concerns ongoing
Lyft conveyed condolences to the victim's family and confirmed that Gomez had been permanently removed from Lyft's platform. The company said it is working with law enforcement in the course of their investigation. Certain local Lyft drivers have raised concerns about the safety of minors riding under the service.
The Bay County Sheriff's Office continues to investigate the situation regarding the shooting. Authorities have not provided a motive for the shooting. The local community continues to be shocked and disgusted by the senseless act of violence, and local officials have asked for the public's help in coming forward with any information that may help in this case.
Florida Teen’s arrest highlights ongoing safety concerns for rideshare Drivers Nationwide
This incident adds to concerning trend of violent incidents against rideshare drivers in the last several years. Likewise, there have been similar tragedies in other states that have raised the same questions about rideshare safety protocols and regulation. Rideshare driver advocates are demanding greater background checks and safety for both drivers and people who take rideshare rides.
As they continue their investigation, authorities are trying to establish whether Gomez acted alone or whether he had accomplices. The Bay County Sheriff's Office is asking anyone with additional information to contact them as their work continues in bringing justice for the victim and family.
