Overview
- Waymo notified San Mateo police, and officers stopped a driverless vehicle Monday and detained two unnamed 15-year-olds who were drinking inside and firing gel pellets known as Orbeez.
- The San Mateo Police Department released photos and video showing officers approaching the vehicle, some carrying stun guns and with a police dog present.
- Police said the teens had been shooting projectiles from the car and warned that toy guns and water-bead weapons can cause fear or real damage, but authorities did not immediately announce any charges.
- The episode updates an earlier June case in Los Angeles where witnesses said a Waymo did not intervene, and it underscores differing outcomes in how the company has engaged law enforcement.
- The incident spotlights broader safety and oversight issues for autonomous rides, including when Waymo staff review live or recorded video, how quickly they alert police, and whether cities will seek clearer rules for remote intervention.