Man slits Uber driver’s throat after ride from local bar: Cops

Authorities in Arizona say a 45-year-old man was arrested this week on suspicion of slitting a driver’s throat at the end of an Uber ride.

According to NBC News, Francisco J. Diaz is accused of calling on the ride-share app from a restaurant in Goodyear on Wednesday evening.

He allegedly entered a vehicle being driven by the victim and rode to a residential location where he told the driver to stop.

The Uber driver, who was not identified in police records, told police he felt the sensation that “a warm liquid was running down his neck” shortly after stopping the vehicle. Police believe Diaz pulled out a knife and slashed the man’s throat.

Reports allege the driver and passenger then began to struggle before Diaz took off on foot.

The driver required hospitalization for his injuries and received treatment to cuts on his hand and 20 staples across the cut on his throat.

He spoke anonymously to local reporters, saying he has been in the business for 12 years but has never considered he could be the victim of such a violent crime.

Authorities caught up with Diaz on Thursday and placed him under arrest. He allegedly confessed to brandishing a knife against the victim, expressing concern that the driver might pose a threat, as reported by KPNX.

Uber acknowledged the “frightening” incident in a statement released on Friday.

“There’s nothing more important than the safety of the drivers and riders we serve,” the company stated. “We are relieved he is recovering and stand ready to help police in their investigation.”

[Featured image: Francisco Diaz, Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office]