Woman Murders Driver In Brockton Road Rage Attack: Police

BROCKTON, MA — The attorney for the woman charged with murdering a Brockton mother in what prosecutors said was a road rage confrontation claimed she was just defending herself, according to reports. Jacqueline Mendes, 38, of Fall River was arraigned in Brockton District Court Monday in the murder of 41-year-old Jennifer Landry. WBZ reported that Mendes's attorney said she acted in self-defense.

Prosecutors said Mendes stabbed Landry in the neck in broad daylight Friday after a "traffic confrontation" at a Brockton intersection. Plymouth Country District Attorney Timothy Cruz said Mendes got back into her car after stabbing Landry and drove away before going to the police station and saying she was involved.

Mendes was arrested at the station on charges of assault with intent to murder and assault and battery with a deadly weapon. Those charges were upgraded to murder after Landry died Saturday.