Gas Prices Jump 10 Cents Overnight in Maryland

Ripple effect from Iran conflict fuels largest single-day spike since Hurricane Katrina

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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A ripple effect from the ongoing strike on Iran has led to the largest single-day jump in gas prices in Maryland since Hurricane Katrina hit Louisiana in 2005. Overnight, the average price of a gallon of regular jumped 10 cents statewide from $2.95 to $3.05 and 11 cents nationally, according to AAA Mid-Atlantic.

Why it matters

The conflict in the Middle East is impacting gas prices across the country, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average dropping by as much as 1,200 points when trading opened Tuesday morning. This highlights how global events can have significant local consequences, raising concerns about the impact on Maryland drivers and the broader economy.

The details

In three separate incidents since July, police said 45-year-old Walker Reed Quinn has been damaging Waymo autonomous vehicles in San Francisco's SoMa neighborhood 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.

  • 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.

The players

Waymo

An American autonomous driving company and is a subsidiary of Alphabet Inc., Google's parent company.

Walker Reed Quinn

A 45-year-old San Francisco resident who has a history of vandalism and was out on bail for prior cases related to Waymo vehicles.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

What’s next

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

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.