Driver's Face Scratched in Road Rage Assault, Cops Say

Two drivers battling for lane position between Washington Township and Hackettstown ended up in a physical dispute, which led to an arrest for simple assault, Hackettstown police said.

A road rage incident began on Rt. 46 near the Target department store around 7:30 p.m. Sunday when one driver, ultimately the alleged victim, attempted to move from the left lane to the right, Sgt. Darren Tynan said. The driver in the right lane, John Lynaugh, 33, of Mansfield, ultimately identified as the alleged assailant, would not let the other driver into the lane, Tynan said.

Once the victim was able to get over, Lynaugh became aggressive and flashed his high beams at the victim’s car as well as tailgated the vehicle, Tynan said.

When the cars came to a temporary stop at the intersection of Rt. 46 and Mountain Avenue, the victim got out of his vehicle and approached Lynaugh’s car, Tynan said. At that time Lynaugh also got out of his vehicle and allegedly verbally and physically assaulted the other driver, Tynan said.

When police arrived at the scene they found scratches on the victim’s face, Tynan said. Lynaugh was charged with simple assault.

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