Lyft Driver Charged with Sexually Assaulting Passenger at Gunpoint

The incident occurred in a church parking lot in Louisville, Kentucky.

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

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A 34-year-old Lyft driver named Yordan Diaz Vera has been arrested and charged with first-degree sodomy, menacing, and kidnapping after he allegedly sexually assaulted a passenger at gunpoint in the backseat of his vehicle in a church parking lot in Louisville, Kentucky.

Why it matters

This case highlights the risks passengers can face when using ride-sharing services, and the importance of thorough background checks and safety protocols for drivers. It also raises concerns about the vulnerability of passengers, especially women, to violent crimes.

The details

According to police, on February 4th, Diaz Vera picked up a passenger at her home in Louisville instead of taking her to her intended destination. He then allegedly pulled a gun, locked the doors, and sexually assaulted her in the backseat. After the assault, Diaz Vera took the victim to a doctor's office, where she called the police and provided a description that led to his arrest the following day in a Kroger's parking lot.

  • On February 4, 2026, the alleged assault occurred.
  • On February 5, 2026, Diaz Vera was arrested.

The players

Yordan Diaz Vera

A 34-year-old Lyft driver who has been charged with first-degree sodomy, menacing, and kidnapping for allegedly sexually assaulting a passenger at gunpoint.

Susan Collins

The attorney representing the victim, who stated that the assault lasted several minutes and occurred in broad daylight, and that Diaz Vera forced the victim to perform a sex act at gunpoint.

Lyft

The ride-sharing company that removed Diaz Vera as a driver and is cooperating with the ongoing criminal investigation.

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What they’re saying

“She ran out of the car and into the office screaming for help.”

— Susan Collins, Victim's attorney (WDRB)

What’s next

Diaz Vera is being held on a federal immigration detainer, and the judge will decide on his bail status.

The takeaway

This case underscores the need for ride-sharing companies to implement more stringent safety measures, including thorough background checks and monitoring of driver behavior, to protect passengers from potential predators.