Delivery Robots Crash Into Chicago Bus Stops, Companies Apologize

Serve Robotics and Coco Robotics take responsibility for separate incidents involving their autonomous delivery vehicles

Apr. 16, 2026 at 11:03pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A highly detailed, glowing 3D illustration of the chassis and internal components of an autonomous delivery robot, illuminated by neon cyan and magenta lights, conceptually representing the advanced technology powering these services.Autonomous delivery robots must navigate complex urban environments while maintaining public trust and safety.Chicago Today

In separate incidents, delivery robots operated by Serve Robotics and Coco Robotics crashed into bus stops in Chicago, shattering glass. The companies have taken responsibility, with Serve Robotics putting up an ad at the site to apologize directly to the community and Coco Robotics covering the cost of repairs.

Why it matters

As autonomous delivery robots become more common in urban areas, these incidents highlight the challenges companies face in ensuring the safe operation of their technology and maintaining positive relationships with local communities. The crashes raise questions about the readiness of this emerging technology and the need for stronger safety protocols.

The details

In March, a Serve Robotics delivery robot crashed into a Chicago Transit Authority bus stop, shattering the glass. Serve Robotics handled the cleanup and repair costs, and recently put up an ad at the bus stop featuring the robot apologizing for the "dramatic entrance." Two days after the Serve Robotics incident, a Coco Robotics delivery robot was also spotted near another Chicago bus stop with shattered glass on the sidewalk. Coco Robotics said the crash was a "rare, isolated event" and that the company would cover the cost of repairs.

  • In March, a Serve Robotics delivery robot crashed into a Chicago bus stop.
  • Two days after the Serve Robotics incident, a Coco Robotics delivery robot was spotted near another Chicago bus stop with shattered glass.

The players

Serve Robotics

A delivery robot company that operates autonomous vehicles for last-mile deliveries.

Coco Robotics

A delivery robot company that operates autonomous vehicles for last-mile deliveries.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Dear West Town neighbors, I took 'breaking into the market' too literally. I'm really sorry about the bus stop... and the dramatic entrance. I promise to do better.”

— Nasir, Serve Robotics Delivery Robot

“We take this matter very seriously.”

— Serve Robotics Spokesperson

“This was a rare, isolated event, and Coco will cover the cost of repairs.”

— Carl Hansen, Vice President and Head of Government Relations, Coco Robotics

What’s next

Serve Robotics and Coco Robotics have both stated they will review their safety procedures and work with local stakeholders to address the issues. The companies will also cover the costs of the repairs to the bus stops.

The takeaway

These incidents highlight the need for autonomous delivery companies to prioritize safety and community relations as they deploy their technology in urban areas. The crashes underscore the importance of robust testing, safety protocols, and transparent communication to build trust with local residents.