There are plenty of road rage incidents that begin with a horn, a rude gesture, or someone driving a little slower than the rest of the traffic. Most of them end with both drivers eventually going their separate ways and complaining about the other person to whoever will listen.
According to police in Jonesboro, Arkansas, one driver’s frustration escalated much further. Investigators say a man became so angry after another driver passed him that he intentionally rammed her vehicle, then backed up and hit it a second time as she was getting out.
The suspect later admitted to police that he was “so pissed,” but disputed that the second collision was intentional. Instead, he claimed his airbags caused his vehicle to roll into the victim’s car after the initial crash.
The incident has now resulted in two felony charges, with the suspect facing the possibility of prison time if convicted.
Driver Hit the Victim’s Car Twice After Being Passed
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According to reporting by Kait8 and NEA Report, the incident happened on July 25 near Fairview Drive and Brazos Street in Jonesboro, Arkansas.
Police say the victim told officers she decided to pass 34-year-old William Paul Langle Jr. because he was driving at what she described as an unusually slow speed. After completing the pass, she slowed down for a speed table.
Investigators say that was when Langle accelerated and intentionally slammed into the back of her vehicle.
Things became even more concerning moments later.
According to the probable cause affidavit, as the woman exited her vehicle following the crash, Langle reversed his vehicle and struck her car a second time. Police said both vehicles suffered functional damage.
Suspect Admitted He Was “So Pissed”
Following his arrest, investigators questioned Langle after advising him of his Miranda rights.
According to the affidavit cited by Kait8 and NEA Report, Langle told officers he believed the other driver had attempted to run him off the roadway. He admitted he was “so pissed” but also acknowledged that his anger did not justify ramming the victim’s vehicle.
Langle denied intentionally causing the second impact.
Instead, he claimed that after the first collision, his airbags deployed, causing his vehicle to roll forward into the other car rather than him deliberately striking it again.
He Is Now Facing Two Felony Charges
Craighead County District Judge David Boling found probable cause to charge Langle with aggravated assault and first-degree criminal mischief.
According to KARK, the criminal mischief charge says property damage is between $1,000 and $5,000. Both offenses are Class D felonies under Arkansas law.
If convicted, each charge carries a maximum penalty of six years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
Court records show Langle is being held on a $3,500 cash or surety bond. His arraignment is scheduled for Sept. 30 at the Craighead County Courthouse.
As with all criminal cases, these are allegations, and William Paul Langle Jr. is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.