Informal taxi driver shot dead by hits after a chase on highway in Ecuador
An informal taxi driver was shot and killed on Tuesday evening, September 30, 2025, following a high-speed pursuit by two motorcycle-riding gunmen on the Samborond贸n highway in Guayas province, Ecuador.
The attack, which occurred around 6:00 p.m. in a secluded area known as Punta Barranco, also left two female passengers injured.
High-Speed Chase Ends in Fatal Shooting
According to local police reports, the victim had picked up the two passengers in the Basti贸n Popular neighborhood in northwest Guayaquil.
Investigators believe the gunmen tracked the vehicle over a long distance, waiting to strike until the driver reached an unlit, isolated stretch of the highway.
When the driver realized he was being targeted, he attempted to flee, initiating a chase. As he swerved to avoid oncoming gunfire, his vehicle crashed into a roadside ditch and broke down. The victim then exited the car to escape on foot, but the assailants caught up with him, killing him instantly.
Passengers Injured and Victim's Background
The two female passengers suffered bullet wounds during the incident. One woman was grazed on the arm, while the other was shot in the arm and chest. Both were transported to a hospital in Dur谩n, where they are currently listed in stable condition.
Authorities revealed that the deceased driver had a criminal record, with three prior arrests鈥攖wo for robbery and one for kidnapping. However, relatives who arrived at the scene disputed any ongoing criminal involvement, stating that he worked a regular transit route and was fully dedicated to providing for his family.
Due to the lack of lighting and the remote nature of the crime scene, forensics teams were unable to safely collect ballistic evidence on-site. The exact number of gunshot wounds the victim sustained will be determined during the autopsy.