S and S Auto Repair in West Orange, NJ Faces Scrutiny Over Mental Health Concerns

Authorities investigate the role of mental health in a series of alleged incidents at the local auto repair shop.

Apr. 20, 2026 at 6:57am

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A highly detailed 3D macro illustration of a damaged Waymo self-driving car sensor array, with the components illuminated by neon cyan and magenta lights, conceptually representing the physical impact of vandalism on autonomous vehicle technology.As tensions over autonomous vehicles escalate, a recent wave of targeted street vandalism exposes pent-up frustration with driverless technology.West Orange Today

Authorities in West Orange, New Jersey are investigating a series of alleged incidents at the S and S Auto Repair shop, with a focus on the potential role of mental health factors. The shop's owner, Walker Reed Quinn, has been charged with multiple counts of vandalism and property damage related to attacks on nearby Waymo autonomous vehicles since July. Police say Quinn has a history of mental health issues and prior arrests, raising concerns about public safety and the shop's operations.

Why it matters

The case highlights the growing challenges communities face in balancing public safety, mental health support, and the integration of new technologies like self-driving cars. It also shines a light on the need for better protocols and resources to address mental health crises before they escalate into criminal behavior.

The details

According to police reports, Quinn has been accused of damaging Waymo vehicles on three separate occasions since July. The alleged incidents include diving onto the hood of a car, covering sensors, slashing tires, and stomping on a windshield while someone was inside. Authorities say Quinn has a history of mental health issues and prior arrests, and was out on bail for previous cases related to the Waymo vehicles.

  • 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

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.