A Ponte Vedra Beach road rage confrontation escalated Sunday evening when a driver allegedly backed into another car and approached the occupants, forcing the victim to draw a firearm while his wife sat inside.
Authorities say the incident began around 5:40 p.m. near A1A and Marlin Avenue with a minor traffic accident. One driver had attempted to document the collision by taking a photo of the other vehicle’s license plate.
The 32-year-old driver of a black Jeep reportedly reacted aggressively to being photographed, papers state. He intentionally reversed his vehicle into the other car while the man taking the shot outside his vehicle, according to an arrest report.
After the collision, the suspect approached the driver’s side door, shouting and reaching inside, causing the victim to fear for their safety.
The victim drew a firearm to defend himself and his wife, prompting the suspect to retreat. No shots were fired.
A responding officer later located the Jeep and attempted a traffic stop, but the driver fled at high speed, ignoring commands to pull over, papers stte.
The suspect ran red lights, stop signs, and entering oncoming traffic along A1A, deputies said.
The chase ended in Duval County when the suspect abandoned the vehicle behind an apartment complex. He taken into custody without incident.
Authorities charged him with aggravated battery, burglary with assault or battery, reckless driving, and fleeing law enforcement.
The case is ongoing.
