Hazelwood, MO – A local man has been arrested after allegations surfaced that he kidnapped and assaulted a Lyft driver, marking a harrowing ordeal that began with a routine ride request and escalated into armed violence at a public venue.
The incident unfolded on October 24 when Anthony Milton allegedly kept a Lyft driver captive, first by refusing to disembark at his stated destination in Hazelwood and subsequently brandishing a firearm to force the driver to continue to another location. According to police affidavits, after reaching the second location, Milton continued to coerce the driver to remain with him and not seek help.
The situation further deteriorated when Milton purportedly demanded the driver enter a local Denny’s restaurant with him—ostensibly to ensure she couldn’t alert authorities. Inside, the victim managed to activate a panic alarm on her phone and attempted to excuse herself to the restroom. It was there that Milton allegedly followed and subsequently assaulted her with his gun. The assault was partially caught on the venue’s surveillance system before Milton fled.
He was later captured by authorities in Collinsville, Illinois. Currently, Milton faces multiple serious charges across both Missouri and Illinois. In Missouri, the charges include kidnapping, armed criminal action, and unlawful possession of a firearm, whereas in Illinois he is charged with armed violence and battery among others.
During police questioning, Milton acknowledged being the person visible in the surveillance footage but contested the driver’s version of events, asserting that she forced him into the restroom—a claim significantly contradicted by witness statements and the footage itself.
Adding to his legal woes, Milton’s status as a convicted felon prohibits him from legally possessing firearms. Moreover, his record includes a recent evasion of law enforcement following a September traffic stop in St. Louis County, which escalated into a police pursuit.
As of now, Milton is being held without bond, pending further court proceedings. This case is under thorough investigation to gather comprehensive evidence, bolstered by the surveillance footage and corroborative witness testimonies.
The incident raises serious concerns about the safety of rideshare drivers, spotlighting an urgent need for enhanced protective measures in the industry. While ridesharing offers convenience and economic opportunities for many, it also exposes drivers to potential risks, emphasizing the importance of effective safety protocols and emergency response options.