JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – A woman was shot in the face while being stopped in traffic after getting into an argument with another driver, and News4JAX Crime and Safety Analyst Tom Hackney says de-escalation is the best course of action when dealing with traffic confrontations.
“You just never know when that person you’re getting into an argument with, or something happens in traffic with somebody who’s legally able to carry the gun,” Hackney said. “And then the next thing you know, something big or something more is happening [that] could have deadly consequences.”
The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office said a woman was shot in the face after an argument in traffic Saturday night.
Police said the woman was stopped in traffic in the 3000 block of Post Street at 10:04 p.m. when the suspect pulled up behind her vehicle.
Officials said the suspect exited her car and approached the victim’s car. The victim then exited her car and a short argument began then the suspect shot the other woman in the face.
The last update from JSO has the victim in critical condition, and the suspect was detained. But it’s a set of circumstances Hackney says could have been avoided.
He advises anyone who finds themselves in a confrontation while on the road to do their best to de-escalate, but be ready to get out of there.
“First thing if you can get out of the situation by escaping, that’s the ideal thing that you can do,” Hackney explained. “If the light’s red and you can safely quickly get through it get out of whatever circumstance you’re in. You have the means to protect yourself if your life’s in danger.”
Anyone with any information is asked to call the JSO non-emergency number at 904-630-0500 or email jsocrimetips@jaxsheriff.org You can also call CrimeStoppers at 1-866-845-TIPS to remain anonymous.