Waymo Defends Robotaxi Operations Amid Vandalism Incidents

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A 45-year-old San Francisco man has been charged by police for a string of alleged attacks on Waymo autonomous vehicles in the city's SoMa neighborhood, resulting in extensive property damage and raising concerns about public safety. The incidents have occurred since July, with the perpetrator, Walker Reed Quinn, accused of damaging Waymo cars by removing and swinging his belt, placing cones on the vehicles, and stomping on windshields.

Why it matters

Waymo has faced some resident backlash and instances of vandalism as one of the most visible self-driving taxi companies operating in San Francisco. The SoMa neighborhood has historically had high rates of property crime, although incident levels have declined somewhat in recent years. This case highlights the challenges autonomous vehicle companies can face in gaining public acceptance, especially in areas with a history of vandalism and distrust of new technologies.

The details

In three separate incidents, police said Walker Reed Quinn has been damaging Waymo vehicles since July by removing and swinging his belt, placing a cone on the dome and sensors of the car, damaging the tires and driver's side mirror, and stomping on the windshield. Waymo has defended its robotaxi operations, clarifying that remote assistance staff did not engage in remote driving during on-road services.

• On July 4, Quinn allegedly dove onto the hood of a Waymo vehicle and covered sensors.
• On July 29, Quinn allegedly damaged a Waymo's tires and driver's side mirror.
• On August 11, Quinn allegedly stomped on a windshield while someone was inside.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.