Greeley, CO – An 18-year-old man was arrested after an alleged road rage confrontation near Greeley in which deputies say he followed another driver for several miles before pointing what appeared to be a handgun at him.
According to the Weld County Sheriff’s Office, a patrol deputy responded shortly before 5 p.m. Wednesday to a harassment report near westbound U.S. Highway 34 and East 27th Street.
Investigators allege Jaime Rodriguez followed the victim from Interstate 76 to Weld County Road 49. During the encounter, Rodriguez allegedly repeatedly pulled in front of the other vehicle, slowed down and prevented the driver from passing.
Near East 27th Street, just north of Highway 34, the victim exited his vehicle, according to the sheriff’s office. Deputies allege Rodriguez then pointed what appeared to be a Glock 9mm handgun at him.
Investigators later determined the weapon was actually a .177-caliber pellet gun, authorities said.
The victim returned to his vehicle, and Rodriguez allegedly drove away. Deputies said their investigation ultimately established probable cause to arrest Rodriguez on suspicion of aggravated menacing involving a weapon.
The sheriff’s office used the incident to warn drivers about the dangers of road rage, noting that confrontations can escalate quickly. Authorities recommend that drivers who believe they are being targeted avoid engaging with the other motorist, travel to a safe location and immediately contact law enforcement.
The case stems from an incident in Weld County, northeast of the Denver metropolitan area.
The charge is an allegation. Rodriguez is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.
