Deputies: EPCOT Lyft Pickup Ends With Pepper Spray and Arrest
The case highlights friction at rideshare zones during a period of heightened security enforcement at Disney parks.
Overview
- Orange County Sheriff’s Office confirms a October 29 altercation at EPCOT involving passenger Jaleen Vargas, 25, during a Lyft pickup.
- Deputies report the driver pepper-sprayed Vargas in self-defense after she threatened to "put her hands on" him.
- According to the arrest report, Vargas allegedly threw EPCOT-themed cakes, punched the driver several times, and scratched his eye.
- Dashcam footage supported the driver’s account, and Vargas was arrested on misdemeanor assault and battery charges.
- Disney has not issued an official statement on the incident, while outlets report increased security presence and stricter conduct enforcement across its properties.