A 14-year-old burned down a Waymo self-driving car in San Francisco, according to police.
Two months ago, a Waymo self-driving car in San Francisco’s Chinatown was targeted by an angry group of youths. Video footage of the incident shows the attackers spray- painting the car and hitting it with skateboards and other objects when someone shouted, “Fire!” Eventually, someone threw a firework into the car, leading to torching .
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The San Francisco Standard is now reporting that investigators have identified a 14-year-old as the suspect in the firework that set off a Waymo self-driving car . The teen was identified after a recent search of his home and the District Attorney's Office has filed charges against him. Due to his age, the individual has not been publicly identified.
The incident occurred in February, amid heightened tensions over autonomous vehicles. Ever since the state of California approved the expanded deployment of commercial robotaxi services in the city, some citizens have seen them as a threat and have begun to act strangely. In August of last year, a group of activists attempted to block the routes of self-driving taxis with traffic cones. Then, in September, a man was caught smashing the windshield of a Cruise with a hammer.
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However, cars have also caused chaos on occasion. Last October, one of GM Cruise hit and dragged a woman. As a result, the city announced a temporary suspension of service. Shortly after, the CEO resigned.
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Vehicle protection
Self-driving cars should be equipped with systems safety such as cameras and sensors that can detect threats and alert authorities.
In addition, companies should use technologies such as special coatings that can withstand vandalism or attacks.
However, the bigger issue is not even getting to the attacks! Companies need to educate the public about the benefits of driverless carsin order to reduce resistance and hostility.
Finally, legislation should be implemented that provides for strict penalties for vandals.
Source: gizmodo.com
