Shots fired in Jacksonville road-rage incident

JSO says no one hurt, no property damaged in incidents

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Two people were taken into questioning Saturday after shots were fired during a road-rage incident, police said.

The Jacksonville Sheriff's Office said no one was hurt in the incident with three separate shooting locations and there was no property damage.

"Road-rage incidents are unfortunate and we advise citizens to not react, disengage and call 911 immediately," JSO officials said.

Investigators said a man followed a woman off of Interstate 10 and into a neighborhood, where she was trying to get help from a relative. They say that woman then fired shots at the man following her.

Police said anyone can claim self-defense in any incident that they feel is appropriate, but it is up to the officer or detective to determine if self-defense is warranted.

News4JAX Crime and Safety Analyst Gil Smith said it's unlikely the incidents will turn violent, but the driver should always know what to do just in case.

"Road rage can be scary because hundreds of people are even killed in relation to road rage incidents throughout the country," said Smith.

Smith said anyone being tailgated or followed should move to the right so they can pass. If a driver makes eye-contact, don't look at them.

"Even better, sometimes, just look at them, wave your hand, say, 'my mistake, I'm sorry.'' said Smith. "Just doing something like that, it usually calms people down." 

Smith also said not to show frustration because that can make the situation worse.

Some advice Smith gives:

  • Avoid making hand gestures or honking the horn
  • If you're followed, call police on your cell phone
  • Finally, don't drive home

Anyone in the situation where the other driver presents a gun should do all they can to get away as soon as possible. Smith said get to safety, and call police.