NBA Reporter Assaulted by Uber Driver During Highway Incident

An Atlanta-based sports reporter alleges she was pepper-sprayed and physically assaulted by an Uber driver during a roadside confrontation. The incident has also led to significant online harassment against her.

Tabitha Turner, covering the Atlanta Hawks and Atlanta Dream, was picked up from the airport by driver Nicole Smith. Turner states she had requested an Uber Comfort ride, which allows customization like temperature settings, and had selected to have a cool interior with windows up and air conditioning on.

However, upon arrival, Turner noticed the vehicle lacked air conditioning and had the windows down, which surprised her given her input in the app. She asked Smith to roll up the windows and activate the A/C. Smith reportedly became upset, pulled over onto the highway’s emergency lane, and asked Turner to exit the vehicle.

Turner recorded the confrontation on her phone, offerring to resolve the issue with a refund or police intervention. During the exchange, Smith allegedly pepper-sprayed Turner in the face, then exited her car, forcibly pulled Turner out, and physically assaulted her.

Witnesses captured video footage of the incident, which authorities used to determine Smith was the aggressor. An arrest warrant has been issued for the driver, who faces charges of battery and simple battery. Officials indicated her actions were reckless and unsafe, especially pulling over abruptly on the highway.

Smith later posted her account on social media, claiming she acted in self-defense due to Turner allegedly carrying a gun—a claim disputed by Turner.

Turner, who recently became a mother, shared she has received threats online, some targeting her as a mother, and others attacking her character, including coworkers. She expressed concern about bringing her young daughter to games due to the online threats.

She thanked her employer for extra security following the incident. Her attorney suggested this could be part of a broader pattern involving Uber drivers, potentially related to fare discrepancies or ride requests not being honored.

The ride-sharing company has yet to comment on the situation.