Gresham, Oregon — A frightening road rage confrontation in Gresham, Oregon, ended with the arrest of a 19-year-old after police say he pointed a handgun at a woman during a traffic dispute that was caught on video.
Authorities say the alarming incident unfolded during the evening rush hour, leaving the victim shaken and prompting a swift police response.
Woman Records Armed Road Rage Encounter
According to Gresham police, the incident occurred around 6:15 p.m. on May 6 near West Powell Boulevard.
Investigators say the victim called authorities after Junior Reyes-Galindo, 19, allegedly began honking aggressively, driving erratically, and threatening her during a road confrontation.
The woman reportedly used her phone to capture the incident on video. Court documents state that the footage showed Reyes-Galindo pulling up alongside her vehicle while holding a handgun.
According to investigators, the suspect then pointed the firearm at the woman before driving away from the area.
The disturbing footage quickly became a key piece of evidence in the investigation.
Police Locate Suspect and Recover Weapon
Following the report, law enforcement officers moved quickly to locate the suspect vehicle.
Authorities said the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office transit police unit spotted Reyes-Galindo near Southeast 150th Avenue and Southeast Powell Boulevard.
Gresham police officers then responded and took control of the investigation.
During a search of the vehicle, officers reportedly recovered a handgun hidden underneath the driver’s seat. Police also said the firearm contained a 30-round magazine, raising additional safety concerns.
Reyes-Galindo was taken into custody without further incident.
Teen Booked on Weapon Charges
After his arrest, Reyes-Galindo was booked into the Multnomah County Detention Center.
He faces allegations including:
- Menacing
- Unlawful use of a weapon
Authorities have not released additional details regarding whether further charges could be filed as the investigation continues.
The incident has drawn attention because of both the alleged use of a firearm during a traffic dispute and the role video evidence played in helping investigators.
Police Chief Speaks on Gun Violence Concerns
In response to the incident, Gresham Police Chief Travis Gullberg emphasized the department’s ongoing efforts to address illegal gun violence in the community.
“Our officers remain focused on holding people accountable when they use firearms unlawfully and put others in danger. That enforcement, combined with intervention and prevention efforts from our community partners, is a key part of our overall Ceasefire strategy to reduce gun violence. Working together, those efforts help keep illegal gun violence out of our neighborhoods and make our community safer.”
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The statement reflects growing concerns among law enforcement agencies nationwide regarding aggressive behavior involving firearms during everyday disputes.
Growing Concerns Over Armed Road Rage Incidents
Road rage incidents involving weapons have increasingly become a concern in cities across the United States. Experts warn that minor traffic confrontations can escalate rapidly when firearms are involved.
Police continue encouraging drivers to avoid engaging with aggressive motorists and to contact authorities immediately if they feel threatened.
In this case, investigators say the victim’s quick thinking and video recording helped officers identify the suspect and secure evidence connected to the incident.
What do you think should be done to prevent armed road rage incidents like this? Share your thoughts respectfully in the comments below.
