Waymo Robotaxi Reports Passengers to Police

A Waymo self-driving vehicle alerted police to suspicious behavior by its passengers on Monday, leading to the detention of two California teenagers. The Waymo vehicle detected the passengers, identified as teenagers, allegedly drinking alcohol and firing Orbeez beads from toy guns out of the windows. In response, the Waymo autonomously parked in a nearby lot and secured the passengers inside until law enforcement arrived. The incident was initially treated by responding officers as a high-risk traffic stop, with approximately five armed officers and a K9 unit surrounding the vehicle, as reported by NBC.

Waymo utilizes interior cameras and microphones within its robotaxis, which the company refers to as the "eyes and ears" of its "Waymo Driver" system. This technology is designed for various purposes, including ensuring vehicle cleanliness, assisting passengers with lost items, and providing support during emergencies. In this specific case, the system identified actions that appeared to be passengers shooting from the car, though authorities later confirmed the projectiles were from Orbeez guns.

The San Mateo Police Department commented on social media, highlighting that while the toys may be intended for fun, they can still pose dangers, especially when handled by untrained individuals. They noted that the mere presence and handling of such items can instill fear in bystanders. Law enforcement also pointed out that projectile firing, even with Orbeez, can cause damage at high speeds. While some social media users commended Waymo for its swift action, others questioned whether the response was proportionate to the situation, with some deeming the enforcement "incredibly dangerous" and "over aggressive."