A road rage confrontation on a busy Utica corridor escalated into a weapons investigation Friday evening, ending with the arrest of a Holland Patent man. Police say the incident involved dangerous driving behavior, threats, and the alleged display of a long gun that left another driver fearing for their safety.
UTICA, NY – On Friday at approximately 6:00 p.m., Utica Police units were dispatched to the 1200 block of Oriskany Street following a report of a menacing incident between two drivers. According to the Utica Police Department, the situation unfolded as both vehicles were traveling along Oriskany Street when an argument began between the operators.
“It was reported that an operator of a vehicle had pointed a long gun at another operator after an argument ensued while both were driving on Oriskany St,” police stated. The victim told officers that prior to the alleged weapon display, the suspect had been “swerving into their lane attempting to strike the vehicle while yelling out the window.”
Incident escalates before police arrival
The encounter continued until both drivers pulled into a location along the 1200 block of Oriskany Street, where officers arrived shortly after. Police say the suspect then allegedly “brandished the weapon placing the victim in fear,” according to the department’s statement.
Officers interviewed both individuals at the scene and assessed the situation based on the accounts provided.
Charges filed following investigation
Following the investigation, police identified Kenneth Tillson, 46, of Holland Patent, as the suspect. He was taken into custody and transported to the Utica Police Department.
“At the conclusion of the investigation, Tillson was charged with: Menacing in the second degree [and] Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the fourth degree,” the department said.
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