COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Columbus Division of Police is requesting assistance from the public in identifying three individuals involved in an assault on a COTA PLUS driver that took place on Monday evening. The incident occurred at approximately 6:10 p.m. on July 8 in the 500 block of East Woodrow Avenue.
According to the Columbus Division of Police, the altercation began when the driver, who was picking up a ride-share customer, became involved in a verbal dispute with three passengers. The driver reportedly asked the passengers to exit the vehicle, at which point one of the passengers assaulted the driver by punching him in the face as he exited the vehicle.
The situation escalated as the two other passengers joined in the assault outside the vehicle. The suspects fled the scene shortly after the attack, leaving the driver injured.
Authorities are actively investigating the incident and are seeking the public’s help in identifying the individuals involved. “We are asking anyone with information regarding this assault to come forward,” the Columbus Division of Police said in a statement.
Detective Todd Jones is leading the investigation, and anyone with information is encouraged to contact him directly at 614-645-1436. The Columbus Division of Police is also accepting anonymous tips through Central Ohio Crime Stoppers. The investigation remains ongoing.