Richmond Mounties see spike in road rage incidents

After four road rage incidents were reported to police in Richmond during just the morning rush on Monday, the RCMP is reminding people to be calm and not engage with aggressive drivers.

Cpl. Adriana O’Malley tells 1130 NewsRadio that two of the reported incidents allegedly involved weapons — one being bear spray, the other turning out to be an Airsoft gun.

“This is an unusual number in such a short period of time. But what was particularly alarming is that weapons were involved,” O’Malley said.

“In the first reported incident, a man indicated that he’d been cut off by a driver of another vehicle, and he confronted that driver, asking him to fight, at which point the driver exited their vehicle holding a can, allegedly, of bear spray.

“Our officers did respond to that call and identified the driver who admitted to their part in that incident. And fortunately, they recognized their poor judgment,” she explained. However, it’s obviously very concerning that you know these two individuals were going to potentially engage in a physical altercation, and that, a weapon was involved, or potentially could have been used in that situation.”

During the second incident, police received reports that the driver of a silver Toyota Rav4 was speeding and driving recklessly. O’Malley says that when the complainant drove up close to the vehicle, they observed the driver holding “what appeared to be a firearm.”

“Now, the firearm was not pointed at the complainant; however, any time you see a weapon like that, it is extremely alarming,” O’Malley said.

“Our officers were able to identify that driver and speak with him. You know, the driver did admit to holding up what he identified as an airsoft gun, which was ultimately seized by our officers, and that investigation remains ongoing.”

O’Malley says Richmond Mounties are seeing an increase in traffic following spring break, which could be an element in the rise of road rage incidents.

“We recognize heavy traffic coupled with roadway construction impacting some key commuter routes in Richmond might be a contributing factor to the increase in frustration on the road, but this type of aggressive, threatening behaviour has no place on our roadways,” she explained.

O’Malley says drivers should remain calm if somebody cuts them off in traffic.

“Do not engage with them verbally or otherwise; ignore it and carry on your way,” she said. “If you do observe someone driving recklessly, including speeding, report it to the police of jurisdiction, or if confronted by another driver, where possible, leave the area and report the incident to police.”

“If you’re not able to leave the area, stay inside your vehicle, lock the doors, and call 911.”

With files from Mike Lloyd.