Taco Bell fires executive whose Uber attack on driver caught on tape

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Tuesday, November 3, 2015
Suspect in Uber attack fired by Taco Bell
Suspect in Uber attack fired by Taco Bell

COSTA MESA, CA (KTRK) -- A man caught on tape beating an Uber driver has been arrested in California. Taco Bell confirms that it has fired Ben Golden, the man seen in the video.

The driver says it all started when he picked up Golden in Costa Mesa.

When the passenger would not provide the driver with a destination, he says he pulled over and asked the man to get out.

Dramatic video then shows the angry passenger attack his driver, punching him repeatedly in the face and pulling his hair.

The driver used mace to protect himself. Police arrived and arrested Golden.

According to an online bio, Golden led Taco Bell's mobile commerce and innovation initiatives.

In a statement, the company says:

"Given the behavior of the individual, it is clear he can no longer work for us. We have also offered and encouraged him to seek professional help."