ORLANDO, FL – A central Florida couple’s night took a harrowing turn when their rideshare driver allegedly turned their journey into a nightmare, pulling a gun after they fled his erratic driving. The incident concluded at a liquor store on TG Lee Boulevard, near Orlando International Airport.
The couple dashed into Airport Liquors, desperate to call 911. Moments later, the driver, identified by police as Joshua Ortega, followed them and attempted to enter the store, brandishing a firearm. Store clerk Jediah Torres recounted the tense moments, all captured on surveillance footage.
“Everything slowed down when the gun came out,” Torres recalled, describing the moment he feared for his life. Footage shows Ortega trying to force his way into the store, with Torres blocking his path. Ortega allegedly threatened Torres, asking, “Do you want to die tonight?”
The situation began when the couple, alarmed by Ortega’s reckless driving, jumped from the vehicle. According to an arrest affidavit, Ortega canceled their ride mid-trip, demanding cash payment. The couple agreed but became increasingly alarmed when Ortega drove erratically and ignored their pleas to stop. They also reported smelling alcohol and marijuana.
Witnessing Ortega’s erratic behavior, Torres observed him drive onto the curb and into the grass before attempting to park. Ortega emerged from the car, demanding money from the couple and confronting Torres, who noted the driver’s breath reeked of alcohol.
Torres focused on de-escalating the confrontation and protecting the couple hiding inside. As Ortega brandished the gun, Torres managed to secure the store’s door, preventing entry. Ortega eventually left, pacing the parking lot before driving away.
Police later apprehended Ortega at a nearby Walmart on Simmeron Boulevard. He faces charges of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and remains in custody without bond, pending a pre-trial hearing.
Lyft has yet to comment on the incident. Ortega’s criminal history includes a DUI charge in 2022, for which he entered a pre-trial diversion program.