NEW CAR SERVICE - LIKE UBER, BUT WITH GUNS

Matt Case - June 13th, 2024 - 7:12am PDT 

Armed Rideshare Service Halts Operations Amid Regulatory Concerns

PHOENIX — A rideshare service offering armed drivers started operations in Phoenix last week, but quickly came under scrutiny for lacking proper authorization from state regulators.

BlackWolf, a TikTok-famous rideshare company that connects passengers with drivers carrying firearms, announced its launch in Phoenix and Scottsdale on social media last Thursday. The company, founded in Atlanta in 2023 by private security guard Kerry KingBrown, claims to provide a safer alternative to traditional rideshares by employing drivers with police, military, or security backgrounds.

@blackwolfapp

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♬ original sound - BlackWolf App

However, the service abruptly ceased its Arizona operations on Friday after an inquiry from Axios prompted the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) to investigate BlackWolf's compliance with state regulations. ADOT spokesperson Bill Lamoreaux confirmed that the company was not authorized to operate in Arizona and stated that the department was examining BlackWolf's operations.

Following the inquiry, BlackWolf removed Arizona from its app's booking options. KingBrown explained in an email that there was an administrative delay in submitting the necessary permitting information to ADOT, but expressed optimism about resolving the issue promptly.

"It's a tough journey, but we are here to stay and operate correctly and legally!" KingBrown wrote.

ADOT spokesperson Steve Elliott confirmed that BlackWolf had submitted an application prior to Friday, but it was incomplete. The department will review the application once all required information is provided to ensure compliance with relevant statutes and rules.

BlackWolf's service allows riders to choose between armed or unarmed drivers, who are responsible for safely transporting passengers but do not provide continued security after drop-off. The company also equips vehicles with cameras that record live video during trips.

The rideshare service is also available in Miami and Fort Lauderdale.