Lyft Driver Attacked By Passenger In Hempfield Township

GREENSBURG, Pa. (KDKA) -- A local Lyft driver is recovering after police said a passenger attacked during the middle of a ride on Sunday.

State police say Carl Beltz attacked the driver because he wanted the car's on-board driver security camera shut off.

After spending time in a South Huntingdon strip club, police say the 42-year-old man ordered the Lyft to take him home.

"He ended up in jail," trooper Stephen Limani said. "Apparently, that was the direction it had to head."

The driver told investigators that the 17-mile ride to the passenger's home in Jeannette was a nightmare.

"The person was very obnoxious, belligerent and rude," Limani said.

After arriving at Beltz's home, he allegedly ripped out the wires for the in-car LED lights believing they were for the camera. He also allegedly attacked the driver when he tried to stop him.

"After the fight ensues, Mr. Beltz, who is the passenger, gets out, takes the LED lights and enters his residence," Limani said.

The driver then called the police.

"We tried to take him into custody. A struggle ensues in his own house," Limani said.

Troopers say Beltz told them he was injured, so they took him to Excela Health.

"He again becomes belligerent, irate, argumentative and physically starts to fight with our trooper," Limani said. "While we were in the parking lot, he tried to take off on foot while he was cuffed."

Beltz is charged with robbery, aggravated assault, resisting arrest and escape. Police say alcohol played a role.

The driver is expected to be OK, according to police.