North Charleston, S.C. — A late-morning road rage encounter in North Charleston escalated into a serious criminal case after police arrested a 22-year-old man and seized a firearm along with fentanyl and heroin, authorities said.
Road Rage Call Brings Police to Rivers Avenue
According to police, officers were dispatched just before 11:30 a.m. Sunday to Rivers Avenue near Aviation Avenue following reports of a road rage incident. The call initially came in as a traffic-related dispute but quickly escalated as more details emerged.
The victims told officers they were stopped at a traffic light when a pickup truck pulled alongside their vehicle. The driver of the truck allegedly intentionally blew thick black exhaust smoke toward them in what appeared to be an aggressive act.
Gun Allegedly Pointed at Victims
Police said the situation worsened moments later when the vehicles encountered each other again. The victims reported that when they caught up to the truck, the driver pointed a handgun in their direction, causing them to fear for their safety.
Officers began searching the area and soon located the suspect vehicle in a nearby parking lot, where they confronted the driver without incident.
Suspect Identified and Taken Into Custody
The driver was identified as Juan Carlos Velasquez, 22. Police took him into custody at the scene while continuing their investigation into the reported threats and aggressive driving behavior.
During a subsequent search, officers said they recovered a loaded handgun, along with fentanyl and heroin. The discovery turned what began as a road rage complaint into a major drug and weapons case.
Multiple Serious Charges Filed
Following the arrest, Velasquez was charged with several felony offenses, including:
- Two counts of pointing and presenting a firearm
- Trafficking fentanyl
- Possession with intent to distribute heroin
- Possession of a firearm during the commission of a violent crime
Police did not immediately release details about the quantity of drugs recovered or whether the suspect has prior criminal history.
Road Rage Incidents Can Turn Dangerous Quickly
Law enforcement officials continue to warn that road rage incidents can escalate rapidly and lead to life-threatening situations. What may start as a traffic dispute or aggressive gesture can quickly involve weapons, injuries, or worse.
Police encourage drivers to avoid engaging with aggressive motorists, keep distance when possible, and contact authorities if they feel threatened rather than confronting another driver directly.
Ongoing Investigation
The investigation remains ongoing, and additional charges could be filed depending on further findings. Police have not reported any injuries connected to the incident.
Velasquez is expected to appear in court, where bond and further proceedings will be determined.
Anyone with additional information related to the incident is encouraged to contact local law enforcement.
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