Chicago Uber Driver with Concealed Carry License Opens Fire on Shooter to Protect Crowd
OutdoorHub Reporters 04.21.15
An Uber driver is being hailed by many as a hero after he shot and disabled a gunman allegedly firing into a crowd gathered in Chicago’s Logan Square on Friday.
According to the Chicago Tribune, the 47-year-old driver used his concealed carry firearm to shoot Everado Custodio, who opened fire on pedestrians near the sidewalk. The driver, who has not been named, fired six shots from his firearm and struck Custodio in the shin, thigh, and lower back. No other injuries were reported. Custodio was transported to a local hospital for treatment and has since been charged with aggravated assault and unlawful use of a weapon.
Authorities say no charges are expected for the Uber driver. Assistant State’s Attorney Barry Quinn told CBS News that the driver “was acting in self-defense and in the defense of others.”
Quinn said the incident occurred after the driver dropped off a customer near Logan Square and was sitting in his parked car when Custodio opened fire on a group of pedestrians. The Uber driver pulled out his gun and fired back. When patrolling police officers arrived at the scene, they found Custodio on the ground and bleeding heavily. A handgun was recovered near Custodio and it is believed to be the weapon used to fire on the crowd. The Uber driver also stayed behind and provided police with his documentation of gun ownership.
Officials said he is a registered gun owner with a concealed carry license—something that is relatively new in the state. Illinois was the last state in the country to allow the concealed carrying of firearms, having only legalized it in 2013 and started issuing licenses just last year. Many have commented that had this incident occurred a little over a year ago, the Uber driver may face illegal weapons charges.
Uber, an international company that uses mobile apps to connect customers to a network of crowd-sourced taxi drivers, clarified that the driver involved in the shooting is still driving for the company. Uber spokesperson Jen Mullin told the Chicago Sun-Times that the company intends to interview the driver but has no comment on the case. Mullin said that it is Uber’s policy for its drivers to follow all local, state, and federal laws when it comes to carrying firearms on their person or in a vehicle.
