Key facts
- Waymo alerted police after its internal cameras detected two 15-year-old riders manipulating a black object and potentially drinking alcohol.
- The object was identified as an Orbeez gun, which fires gel beads.
- Waymo's remote support team observed what appeared to be "recoil" from the object.
- The riders were informed the vehicle was being pulled over due to "issues," and they were free to exit before police arrived.
- Authorities confirmed the riders had been drinking alcohol; no injuries or property damage were reported.
Waymo has reported two 15-year-old individuals to the San Mateo Police Department after its internal monitoring system detected them manipulating what appeared to be a firearm and possibly consuming alcohol. A Waymo representative contacted police, stating they could see inside the vehicle and observed a black object being passed between the riders, with one instance appearing to be "recoil." The company did not alert the passengers that it had contacted law enforcement. The riders were informed the vehicle was experiencing "issues" and was being pulled over into a parking lot. The doors were not locked, and the occupants were free to leave before police arrived. Investigators later determined the object was an Orbeez gun, which fires gel beads, and that the riders had been drinking alcohol. No injuries or property damage were reported. Authorities are awaiting receipt of cabin video footage from Waymo. Waymo's vehicles are equipped with interior cameras and microphones, with the company stating that in-cabin cameras are "on and recording" to monitor for cleanliness, lost items, emergencies, rule enforcement, and safety. The company has been working to curb underage riding, using interior camera checks to flag potential violations, though it acknowledges this can lead to false positives for older teens. Waymo may share data with law enforcement to comply with legal requirements or ensure safety, typically requiring a warrant or court order.