What was supposed to be a short Lyft trip from EPCOT turned into one of the strangest guest incidents Disney World has seen this year. Authorities say a rideshare driver was assaulted after an argument turned physical—complete with pepper spray and even flying cakes.
A Heated Exchange
The Orange County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that the altercation happened on October 29 when 25-year-old Jaleen Vargas of New York requested a Lyft pickup at EPCOT. According to the arrest report, the pair began arguing soon after the ride started. The driver reportedly decided to end the trip early, telling Vargas to exit the vehicle.
When she refused to leave quietly, the confrontation escalated. Deputies say Vargas threatened to “put her hands on” the driver, prompting him to pepper-spray her in self-defense. That’s when things took a wild turn. Vargas allegedly threw EPCOT-themed cakes at the driver before punching him several times and scratching his eye. The driver later provided dashcam video that backed up his story. Vargas was arrested on misdemeanor assault and battery charges.
A Growing Problem Across Disney Property
Incidents like this one are becoming more common at Walt Disney World. Just last month, guests at the Polynesian Village Resort were involved in a late-night shouting match that required security intervention. Earlier in the year, another guest was detained after sneaking backstage in an attempt to “see how the rides work.”
Many longtime fans have noticed the shift, blaming higher prices, long lines, and constant refurbishments for putting guests on edge. With popular attractions like Big Thunder Mountain Railroad and Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin temporarily closed, frustrations have been mounting during an already-busy holiday season.
Disney’s Crackdown on Unruly Behavior
While Disney hasn’t commented directly on the EPCOT rideshare altercation, the company has tightened enforcement of its guest-behavior policy. Security has become more visible at park entrances and transportation zones, and cast members have been trained to immediately report heated situations.
For most visitors, the parks still deliver the joy they’re known for—but moments like these show that even Disney’s magic can’t always stop tempers from flaring.
