Alleged Firearm Threat in Newcastle Road Rage Incident Leads to Arrest
A Sydney man is facing serious charges after police allege he produced a gun during a road rage confrontation in Newcastle. The incident unfolded following a collision between two vehicles on the busy Stockton Bridge.
Charges Laid After Bridge Collision Escalates
The alleged confrontation occurred around 11:50am when two cars were damaged in a crash on Stockton Bridge. According to police statements, both drivers subsequently pulled into Teal Street on Kooragang Island where their argument intensified dramatically.
Investigators will allege that during this heated exchange, one man threatened the other with a firearm before both parties left the scene. The 56-year-old driver who reported feeling threatened later attended Waratah Police Station to formally report the incident to Newcastle officers.
Extensive Police Investigation Leads to Arrest
Both Newcastle City Police District and Ryde Area Command launched comprehensive inquiries into the alleged firearm threat. Their investigation culminated around 5pm on Monday when officers attended a residence on Hamilton Crescent in Ryde.
At this location, police arrested a 77-year-old man who was subsequently taken to Gladesville Police Station for processing. During the arrest, officers seized what they described as a pistol and issued a firearm suspension notice to the accused.
Serious Charges and Bail Refusal
The elderly Sydney man now faces two significant charges: being armed with intent to commit an indictable offence, and stalk/intimidate with intent to cause fear of physical harm. Following his arrest, authorities refused bail, meaning the accused will remain in custody until his court appearance.
The 77-year-old is scheduled to face Burwood Local Court where the details of the alleged road rage incident will be formally presented. The case highlights growing concerns about road rage incidents escalating into potentially dangerous confrontations involving weapons.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of how quickly traffic disputes can escalate, particularly when emotions run high following collisions. Newcastle police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the initial crash on Stockton Bridge and the subsequent alleged firearm threat.
