Oak Lawn, IL – A road rage incident in Oak Lawn, Illinois, has left a 73-year-old man with dementia seriously injured after being allegedly attacked by a fellow driver, according to local authorities.
The suspect, 41-year-old D’Angelo Groce, has been charged with two counts of aggravated battery by the Oak Lawn Police Department and is currently being held without bond.
Incident Occurred in Late November
The attack occurred in late November at an intersection near a gas station in Oak Lawn, a suburb of Chicago. Joseph and his wife, Deborah, whose last names were withheld for privacy, were attempting to maneuver into a turning lane when a truck allegedly cut them off, according to reports.
Deborah recounted the moment of confrontation. “When I tried to get over, he sped up and plowed into me,” she said. Groce then allegedly pushed her, causing her to fall backward onto her elbows, lose her glasses, and drop her phone on Cicero Avenue.
Elderly Husband Attacked
The incident escalated when Joseph, 73, who has dementia, tried to intervene. Authorities say Groce allegedly punched him, knocking him to the ground. Deborah described hearing Groce threaten her husband, “Get up again, mf–er, and I’m going to finish you,” as Joseph struggled to stand.
Police arrived at the scene after witnesses called 911. Joseph sustained a broken nose, broken jaw, two broken teeth, and scrapes on both hands. His wife described the experience as terrifying: “I thought he was going to kill him,” she told CBS News.
Financial and Emotional Impact on the Family
The violent encounter also caused significant financial strain. The couple reported over $2,000 in car repairs, and Joseph required $7,000 in surgery for his injuries due to lack of dental insurance. Deborah emphasized the emotional toll, noting that her husband had already been coping with dementia: “He’s going through enough, and to go through this much pain… it’s just totally unnecessary.”
Defendant’s Criminal History
Groce has a lengthy history of prior offenses, according to CBS News. His record includes:
- Burglary conviction in 2010
- Domestic violence conviction in 2012
- Aggravated battery with a deadly weapon and aggravated assault with a motor vehicle in 2020
Authorities say this pattern of violence likely factored into his detention without bond.
Next Court Appearance
Groce is scheduled to appear in Cook County Court on Dec. 19. Police and prosecutors are preparing to move forward with the aggravated battery charges, highlighting the seriousness of the attack on a vulnerable, elderly individual.
The case has raised alarms in Oak Lawn about road rage incidents and elder safety. Officials stress the importance of reporting aggressive drivers and protecting vulnerable community members.
Have you witnessed or experienced aggressive driving in your area? Share your stories and thoughts in the comments below.
