SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4) — A 38-year-old man has been charged after allegedly pointing a gun at a motorcyclist during a road rage incident on I-215.
Richard Jacob Verkaaik was charged with third-degree felony aggravated assault, according to court documents.
Verkaaik was reportedly a passenger in a sedan driving on I-215 near 4700 South on Friday, July 26. Police say a motorcyclist got onto the freeway and merged into the left in front of the sedan. The sedan then allegedly began tailgating the motorcyclist, who moved to the next lane right in response.
Investigators say at that point, the sedan pulled in front of the motorcyclist. The driver allegedly brake-checked the motorcyclist while Verkaaik allegedly pointed a gun toward him. Charging documents say the driver of the Sedan attempted to push the gun down so the motorcycle rider would not see it.
According to the Salt Lake County District Attorney’s Office, Verkaaik argued the motorcyclist had pulled in front of the sedan and brake-checked them. Verkaaik also said the motorcyclist was allegedly swerving in front of them so they could not go around.
When stopped by police, Verkaaik reportedly admitted to having the gun in the glove compartment of the sedan.
“People need to practice patience when driving on the road. Violence on Salt Lake County roadways is unacceptable,” said Salt Lake County District Attorney Sim Gill. “If you are caught in a similar situation, please pull over and contact law enforcement as soon as possible.”
As of Tuesday, Aug. 6, only Verkaaik had been charged in relation to the incident. the Salt Lake County District Attorney’s Office said potential charges against the driver of the sedan and the motorcyclist are being screened.
Charges are allegations only. All arrested persons are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
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