Uber driver charged with kidnapping Bend woman during ride
1. Uber driver charged with kidnapping Bend woman
2. Bend woman kidnapped by Uber driver.
Accident – Death – Obituary News : 
Bend, Oregon – The Bend Police Department announced on Thursday that a 48-year-old Uber driver has been arrested and charged with kidnapping in Deschutes County. The incident occurred on Tuesday evening, according to authorities.
At approximately 9 p.m., a woman reported to the police that she had ordered an Uber ride to her Bend residence, which was just a short 5-minute drive away from her current location. Little did she know that this seemingly routine ride would turn into a terrifying ordeal.
The Uber driver, who was identified in the app as “Rocky,” arrived to pick her up at around 6:26 p.m., as confirmed by the Bend Police Department.
Kidnapping Incident Unfolds
Trouble started when, at 6:29 p.m., the driver, later identified as Rocky Eugene Earl Heath of La Pine, abruptly canceled the ride. Despite the woman’s repeated requests to be taken home, Heath allegedly continued to drive her around for a distressing 25 to 30 minutes.
The victim’s ordeal finally came to an end when the driver dropped her off at her residence. Shaken from the experience, she immediately contacted the authorities to report the incident.
Arrest and Charges
Following the victim’s call, law enforcement officers initiated a search for Heath’s vehicle, which was described as a 2023 Polestar 2.
Close to 11:30 p.m., police spotted the Polestar being driven by Heath near the intersection of Northwest Minnesota and Northwest Lava. A traffic stop was conducted, leading to the arrest of the suspect.
Heath was subsequently taken into custody and booked at the Deschutes County Jail. He now faces charges of second-degree kidnapping and second-degree disorderly conduct.
The police have seized and towed Heath’s vehicle, and the allegations have been reported to Uber.
Increased Vigilance against Crimes
This incident serves as a reminder for ride-hailing service users to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions when using such platforms. While incidents like these are rare, it is crucial to prioritize personal safety and report any suspicious or concerning behavior to the authorities.
Related Incidents
In a separate incident, two teenagers were recently arrested in connection with a car theft that involved a child in November 2023. The Portland Police Bureau has confirmed the arrest.
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1. Uber driver charged with kidnapping Bend woman during ride
2. Uber driver accused of kidnapping Bend woman during ride.
