Greenville County authorities denied bond to Naziyha Weatherall on Friday after she was charged with stabbing a Lyft driver 11 times and stealing his vehicle.
Charges and Court Proceedings
Weatherall faces attempted murder, carjacking and possession of a weapon during a violent crime, according to Greenville County court records.
Prosecutors called the incident a “frightening factual scenario” and argued she poses an extreme danger to the community, a claim echoed by the solicitor representing the state.
Defense Claims Mental Health Crisis
Her attorney said Weatherall had never been charged before and was in the midst of a psychiatric emergency, citing a diagnosis of schizophrenia and other mental health conditions.
The defense added that paranoia led her to believe she was being monitored and that she summoned the ride to report alleged threats, a claim supported by her mother’s statement to police.
Family and Victim Impact
The driver’s wife appeared in court on his behalf, stating the trauma prevented him from attending and emphasizing that he was simply working.
She urged the judge to consider the family’s suffering and the broader risk to public safety.
Bond Denial and Future Evaluation
A judge ordered competency and observation evaluations in June; on Friday the judge denied Weatherall’s bond request and ordered her to remain jailed pending a September psychological evaluation.
The defense now says she is medicated, stable and competent, and requested release to a treatment facility with family and social worker support.
Lyft Response
Lyft removed the rider accounts involved from its platform and pledged continued cooperation with law enforcement, stating that violence has no place in its community.
A Lyft spokesperson emphasized the driver’s well‑being and said the company has reached out to the victim and his family to offer support.
Background
The incident occurred on April 22, when Weatherall allegedly attacked the driver while he was providing a ride, then carjacked his vehicle, according to court filings.
Fox News Digital has not yet received comment from Weatherall’s attorney.
