Key Takeaways:
– A Waymo autonomous vehicle was vandalized and set on fire during Chinese New Year celebrations in San Francisco’s Chinatown.
– The vehicle, which was not carrying any passengers, was completely destroyed in the incident.
– The incident was captured on video by an onlooker, and no injuries were reported.
– Waymo is yet to release an official statement regarding the incident.
A Waymo self-driving car was vandalized and subsequently burned down during the festive Chinese New Year celebrations in San Francisco’s Chinatown this weekend.
Waymo Vehicle Engulfed by Fire During Celebrations
Amid the merry-making and fireworks of the Chinese New Year, a Google-owned Waymo car was met with an unfortunate fate. The autonomous vehicle was surrounded by a crowd on a bustling street in the heart of the city’s Chinatown. The car, already defaced with graffiti and reduced to broken windows, was rendered immobile before a lit firework was thrown into its cabin. The sparkler exploded, sparking a fierce fire that consumed the car. Onlookers watched as the Waymo car was reduced to ashes, flashing its hazard lights in helpless plea.
The shocking incident was captured in a series of videos that have since made rounds on various social media platforms. Twitter user Anirudh Koul provided footage illuminating the severity of the event, showing the car’s tragic journey from operational vehicle to scrap metal.
Fire Department Response and Waymo’s Comment
The local fire department arrived at the scene to fight the raging blaze, albeit too late to salvage much of anything from the vehicle. Luckily, the fire was contained in time, preventing it from spreading to other areas.
Addressing the incident, Waymo confirmed that the car was not hosting any riders at the time and conclusively stated that there were no injuries reported related to the fire. The communications team from the company offered no further details regarding the damages incurred or their plan of action in response to the event.
Speculation and Public Reaction
Although it’s unclear whether the incident was a targeted attack on the autonomous vehicle or an unfortunate accident, it has sparked a slew of debates online and offline. While some people express concern about the safety of autonomous cars, others decry the wanton destruction of property. An investigation into the event is ongoing, and the public awaits more information to form a definitive opinion.
Final Thoughts
This ugly event marks a blot on the festive celebrations that usually characterize the Chinese New Year in the bustling city of San Francisco. As the smoke clears, it’s evident that the incident has opened a fresh can of worms regarding the safety and acceptance of autonomous vehicles.
As this story continues to develop, all eyes are on Waymo for their response and any measures they might take to ensure the safety and security of their autonomous vehicles. Social media users, tech enthusiasts, and potential riders alike share a heightened curiosity regarding the future of self-driving cars after this unfortunate incident.