Taxi driver assaulted in South Shields after passenger left without paying
A police search is ongoing after a taxi driver was assaulted by a passenger who failed to pay the fare.
The man had left the taxi without paying for the journey to the Horsley Hill area of South Shields shortly before midnight on Saturday, February 15.
When the driver attempted to speak to the passenger about paying the fare, a ‘verbal altercation’ broke out and the man assaulted the taxi driver.
A Northumbria Police spokesperson said: "Shortly before midnight on Saturday, February 15, we received a report a taxi driver had been assaulted on Warkworth Avenue in South Shields.
"It is believed a male alighted from the taxi without paying. Following a verbal altercation the male has then punched the driver and left the scene.
"Inquiries to trace the male are ongoing and anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact police by calling 101 quoting log 1240 150220."