Indianapolis, IN — A 26-year-old man, identified as Issac Martinez, has been arrested following a road rage shooting that escalated into a hit-and-run crash on the southwest side of Indianapolis, authorities confirmed. The incident occurred on November 24 and prompted a detailed investigation by the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD).
Martinez now faces multiple charges in Marion County, including:
- One count of criminal recklessness, a Level 5 felony
- One count of intimidation, a Level 5 felony
- Misdemeanor count of leaving the scene of an accident
Road Rage Shooting Precedes Crash
Court documents indicate the violent events began earlier that afternoon when Martinez reportedly engaged in a road rage incident on Camby Road. According to the victim, Martinez was tailgating him, then continued to follow him onto Kentucky Avenue, eventually pointing a firearm at the vehicle and firing shots at it.
Hit-and-Run Crash Follows Shooting
Shortly after the road rage encounter, Martinez allegedly crashed his vehicle into the victim’s car, and then collided with a no-turn sign and a telephone pole. Witnesses reported seeing Martinez flee into a backyard between two homes on Mendenhall Road before being apprehended later while walking on Heathrow Way.
Weapons Seized During Arrest
When taken into custody, Martinez was found carrying a Glock 39 with two magazines, 11 live .45 caliber rounds, and a holster. Investigators also recovered a .45 caliber X-Star pistol from his vehicle, along with a spent .45 caliber casing.
Authorities said the weapons, coupled with Martinez’s actions, were critical elements of the investigation into both the shooting and hit-and-run, as per the reports.
Potential Penalties
If convicted of the Level 5 felonies, Martinez could face 1 to 6 years in prison and up to a $10,000 fine for each count. Additional penalties may apply for the misdemeanor charge of leaving the scene of an accident.
Community Response and Safety Concerns
The incident has sparked concern in the community regarding road rage incidents and the risks posed when firearms are involved. Police emphasized the importance of reporting aggressive drivers and remaining vigilant on roadways to prevent escalation.
Your Turn
Have you witnessed or been affected by road rage incidents in Indianapolis? Share your experiences, safety tips, or reactions in the comments below.
