ARLINGTON, TX – A bizarre incident unfolded as a rideshare driver was kidnapped and forced to drive from North Texas to Miami, Florida, according to the authorities. The alleged kidnapper was 23-year-old Miguel Pastran Hernandez, who was apprehended by the local police.
The incident began last Friday when the unnamed rideshare driver picked up Hernandez in Arlington. During the journey, Hernandez reportedly brandished a firearm and demanded the driver transport him to South Florida under threat, federal prosecutors stated.
Court records indicate that Hernandez admitted to having more firearms in his suitcases within the car. Feeling threatened and without control of the situation, the driver conceded and began to drive according to Hernandez’s instructions.
The ordeal extended for three days, during which Hernandez ordered the driver to pull into a Dollar General store near Miami. Hernandez was allegedly planning to gather supplies for another kidnapping targeting a potential victim for a $3 million ransom.
Seizing the opportunity, the driver concealed himself in the store’s bathroom, where he stayed until the arrival of law enforcement. Pastran attempted to flee the scene but was soon apprehended by the police.
Court documents reveal that Hernandez confessed to ordering the rideshare service in Texas and then kidnapping the driver at gunpoint. He acknowledged forcing the driver to take him to Florida, where he noted the driver was not free to depart. Hernandez is expected to face federal charges and an arraignment next week for the alleged kidnapping.