White Lyft Passenger Banned From App After Calling Driver A ‘Wetback’ In Racist Rant
A white Lyft passenger is now banned from using the app after the called his driver a “wetback” during a racist rant over him not wearing a mask. The incident, which occurred on May 28 in Las Vegas, was all captured on video which has now surfaced.
In the footage, the driver, Edgar, is seen picking up the rider, Richard. Upon confirming their identities, Edgar asks Richard if he has a mask that he could put on, and he explains he does not. After asking him to use his shirt to cover his nose and mouth, Richard mentions that he doesn’t believe in the virus and begins getting “smart” with Edgar; eventually telling him, “I don’t like you.”
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As Edgar asks if he wants to get out, Richard replies, “No, I want you to take my ass home, and going to give you a sh*tty review.” Edgar pulls over and asks him to get out of the car, and that’s when things quickly escalate as Richard refuses. During their spat, Richard says he’s entitled to free speech, and ends up calling Edgar a “candy ass f***ot” and says he’d “crush [his] f*cking skull.” Later, he calls him a “boy,” and a “wetback,” before finally getting out before police are called.
Speaking with TMZ, the rideshare company reportedly says the rider has been banned and are working with the driver to ensure he’s ok. A rep stated, “The behavior shown by the rider in this video is despicable and has no place on the Lyft platform. Lyft is committed to maintaining an inclusive and welcoming community, and discrimination is not tolerated.”