Suspect arrested in connection with attack of Uber driver

A 33-year-old Belmont man was arrested late last week on suspicion of attacking and trying to carjack an Uber driver in Palo Alto, authorities said.

The incident was reported on the 3900 block of Fabian Way, near the Taube Koret Campus for

Jewish Life, about 7 p.m. Friday, said Palo Alto police spokeswoman Janine De la Vega in a news release Monday afternoon.

De la Vega said an initial investigation found that the victim, a man in his 20s, was driving the suspect, later identified as George Bjurberg, from San Francisco to San Jose when Bjurberg demanded to be dropped off in Redwood

City. The victim exited the freeway, stopped on Fabian Way and told Bjurberg he would need to get another Uber.

Bjurberg began hitting the victim in the back of his shoulder, De la Vega said. The victim, fearing for his safety, got out of the vehicle. De la Vega said the suspect followed suit and forced his way into the driver’s seat.

The victim tried to stop Bjurberg, who stepped on the accelerator pedal during the struggle, De la Vega said.

De la Vega said the victim then agreed to drive Bjurberg again but he instead dialed 911. Bjurberg, who had exited the vehicle, became agitated upon hearing the call and started banging on a window, said De la Vega, adding that the passenger side mirror was damaged.

Bjurberg ran from the scene, but officers found and arrested him a short time later, De la Vega said. He was booked into the Santa Clara County Main Jail in San Jose on charges of attempted carjacking, battery and vandalism, as well as a San Mateo County warrant for theft.

De la Vega said the victim suffered minor injuries, but he declined medical attention.

Anyone with information about the incident can contact the Palo Alto Police Department at 650329-2413. Those wishing to remain anonymous can call or text 650-383-8984 or email paloalto@tipnow.org.