Man Fired Gunshots During Road Rage Incident In Woodbridge: Police

WOODBRIDGE, VA — A man who drove away from the scene of a crash fired gunshots during a road rage incident in Woodbridge, according to the Prince William County Police Department.

The man, 30-year-old Anthony Jermaine Bowles, was arrested on Sunday. He is charged with reckless handling of a firearm, hit and run, and public intoxication.

If convicted of all charges, Bowles could face up to two years in prison. He is being held without bond and his court date is pending.

Around 3 p.m. on Sunday, Bowles was involved in a crash in the 4400 block of Dale Boulevard in Woodbridge, according to the police report. Another driver said Bowles, who was identified later, was driving erratically and suddenly stopped, causing the crash. Bowles then drove away before exchanging information, authorities said.

Police officers later found Bowles's vehicle in a parking lot, but he wasn't in it. Bowles, who appeared to be intoxicated, then approached the officers. The officers took him into custody, the police department said.

During their investigation, authorities learned that Bowles was involved in an earlier road rage incident. Authorities said Bowles had exited his vehicle and fired multiple gunshots toward a black Toyota Corolla. Investigators have not found the Toyota or identified the driver.

Police officers found cartridge casings in the roadway during their investigation. No injuries were reported, according to the police department.

AAA offers several pieces of advice to prevent road rage incidents on their website. Here's what AAA recommends to avoid confrontation:

• Avoid eye contact with angry drivers.
• Don’t respond to aggression with aggression.
• If you feel you are at risk, drive to a public place such as a police station, hospital or fire station.
• When you park, allow room so you can pull out safely if someone approaches you aggressively.
• Use your horn to attract attention but remain in your locked vehicle.
• If you are confronted, stay as calm and courteous as possible.
• If you feel threatened, call 911.