According to reports, the driver picked up Kyle Dawson and Christopher Dunton in New Beford early in the morning. When they arrived at their destination, the men allegedly put the driver in a choke hold and pulled a knife, with the intent to rob him.
However, the cab driver was able to get loose and grab his gun, firing several shots into the backseat.
The driver shot Dunton four times, who was transported to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead. Dawson fled the scene, but police arrested him shortly after noon that same day.
Massachusetts Concealed Carry Cabbie Outcome
Prosecutors charged Dawson with armed assault with intent to commit robbery and assault and battery with a dangerous weapon. The judge denied bail, and the suspect is being held until a dangerousness hearing can be held in New Bedford District Court.
The driver suffered only minor injuries during the attack; he was not identified. However, despite having a concealed carry permit, police are investigating whether the shooting was in self-defense.
Cab Driver Dangers
Driving a cab can be dangerous, as drivers often carry cash. According to OSHA, between 1998 and 2007, homicides for cab drivers ranged from nine per 100,000 workers to 19; the rate for all workers was around 0.5 per 100,000 workers.
A Chicago survey, conducted in 2008, found that 58.7 percent of drivers had been threatened, attacked or subjected to hostile racial comments. In fact, half said they had been attacked while driving. Guns were the most used weapon, followed by knives.
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