Knife-wielding duo steals taxi after slashing driver in face
Howell Township, NJ — A 46-year-old taxi driver was violently attacked and carjacked by two passengers late last night in Howell Township, prompting an active investigation by local police.
The incident occurred on January 16, 2026, at around 11:15 p.m., when a Howell Township Police patrol officer discovered the injured victim on Old Tavern Road. The man, employed by a taxi company based in Asbury Park, was found bleeding from the face and reported that he had been slashed with a knife and carjacked by two Hispanic male passengers near the entrance to Oak Glen Park.
According to police, the two suspects had arranged for a taxi ride beginning in Neptune, NJ, and requested to be dropped off in a parking lot adjacent to Oak Glen Park. Once at the location, they allegedly attacked the driver and fled the area in the stolen vehicle. The victim escaped on foot and was later located by officers conducting proactive patrols.
Soon after, Howell Township Police found the stolen taxi abandoned on Maxim Road. A K-9 track was initiated, and the vehicle was processed for evidence by detectives.
The suspects are described as Hispanic males, between 18 and 24 years old, wearing dark-colored clothing and speaking Spanish. One had black hair. Both fled the scene after the attack.
The victim was treated at Jersey Shore Medical Center for a facial laceration and is listed in stable condition.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Detective Vincent Bonner at 732-938-4575, ext. 2647.
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Key Points
- A taxi driver was attacked with a knife and carjacked by two passengers in Howell Township on January 16
- The suspects arranged a ride from Neptune and fled in the stolen vehicle, which was later recovered
- The victim was hospitalized with facial injuries; police are seeking public assistance in identifying the suspects
