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Uber Investigates After Atlanta Reporter’s Highway Altercation with Driver

Mericole Smith faces misdemeanor battery charges for pepper-spraying sports reporter Tabitha Turner during a roadside dispute over air conditioning.

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Tabitha Turner during a game between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Atlanta Hawks last year.

Overview

  • Hapeville Police issued an arrest warrant for Mericole Smith on misdemeanor battery and simple battery charges after reviewing video that showed her as the aggressor.
  • Uber has removed both Turner and Smith from its platform and is conducting an internal investigation into the incident.
  • Turner says Smith’s viral social media posts have led to threats and interruptions to her broadcasting duties.
  • The conflict began when Turner, who ordered an Uber Comfort ride from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, asked for the air conditioning to be turned on and windows rolled up.
  • Turner’s attorney, Miguel Dominguez, is examining Uber’s driver vetting process as he considers civil action over the incident.