Dangerous duo kidnaps Uber driver at gunpoint, forcing him to drive for hours going to random ATMs
(January 20, 2026) On Sunday, police in Boynton Beach, Florida, announced the arrests of 20-year-old Isaiah Thurston and 24-year-old Jakeria Riley on charges that included kidnapping, armed robbery, possession of a controlled substance, violation of probation, and resisting arrest.
Background: On January 16, an Uber driver reported being kidnapped at gunpoint after picking up a ride near the Catalina Center. The suspect, wearing all black and a ski mask, pressed a gun into the driver’s back, and then called a female accomplice into the vehicle.
The two suspects forced the Uber driver to drive throughout West Palm Beach and Riviera Beach for nearly two hours while attempting to withdraw cash using credit cards. They later returned to Boynton Beach and fled.
Following an investigation and coordinated search, Boynton Beach detectives located and arrested both suspects near the Courtyard Marriott. Riley was found in possession of cocaine and credit cards. Both are currently being held at the Palm Beach County Jail.
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Police say that their investigation was a collaborative effort that included the Major Case Unit, Digital Forensic Unit, Real Time Crime Center, Road Patrol, Community Response Team, Drone Team, K-9 Unit and PBSO Aviation Unit – with special thanks going to the Department of Corrections Probation team for going above and beyond in successfully identifying Thurston as a suspect.
Thurston and Riley have already appeared before a judge who ordered both to be held without bail. CBS12 News shared a statement issued by Uber:
“We’re horrified by this report, and can’t imagine how terrifying this experience was for the driver. We’ve been in touch while we continue to investigate further, and stand ready to assist law enforcement however we can.”
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(Source: Boynton Beach Police Department / Mugshots: Palm Beach County Jail)
Posted by Richard Webster, Ace News Today
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