CHICAGO — A road rage incident on the West Side turned violent when a 25-year-old man allegedly opened fire on another driver in what prosecutors described as a “senseless” act of aggression.
The shooting took place on Sunday afternoon in the 300 block of South Central Avenue in the Austin neighborhood. Authorities have charged Darion Gaddy with opening fire on a 55-year-old man following a traffic altercation stemming from a lane merge.
Lane Change Sparks Gunfire
According to prosecutors, the incident began when both vehicles were stopped at a red light. When the light turned green, the older driver attempted to merge into Gaddy’s lane. The merge maneuver brought Gaddy’s vehicle closer to oncoming traffic, which allegedly infuriated him.
In response, Gaddy reportedly pulled out a pistol and fired multiple rounds through his own driver’s side window at the other car.
Victim Wounded, Shooter Tracked
The 55-year-old victim recalled hearing at least three gunshots. One of the bullets shattered the front windshield and struck his left arm. Despite the chaos, the victim was able to pull over and call for emergency assistance.
Fortunately, another motorist who heard the gunfire took quick action, following Gaddy’s vehicle and providing police with directions to his location.
Chicago police soon located Gaddy and arrested him. During the search, officers found:
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Two shell casings in Gaddy’s pants pocket
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Three additional casings inside his Jeep
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A firearm also located in the vehicle
Shooter Claimed He Felt Trapped
According to Gaddy’s arrest report, he claimed that he fired the shots because “two cars were trying to box him in.”
However, the judge did not find that explanation compelling.
Judge Shauna Boliker granted prosecutors’ request to detain Gaddy without bond, stating that his actions were “designed to frighten and anger” the victim, who was simply attempting a standard lane change.
Public Safety Concerns Raised
The case has stirred concerns about road rage incidents escalating to gun violence — a trend that has alarmed community leaders across Chicago.
“This is exactly the kind of volatile reaction that we worry about when people carry firearms without the temperament or responsibility to use them safely,” said a local traffic safety advocate.
Austin residents say the shooting has left many shaken, as it took place in broad daylight on a heavily traveled city street.
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