Carmel, IN – A man is behind bars after an alleged road rage shooting on Interstate 465 led to a multi-agency investigation and felony arrest in Carmel, police officials confirmed. The incident unfolded early Sunday morning and prompted a response from local officers, detectives, and a specialized SWAT team.
Early Morning Gunfire Triggers Police Response
Officers with the Carmel Police Department were dispatched at approximately 3:35 a.m. on Sunday to the 3700 block of West 97th Street after receiving reports of gunshots fired in the area. Upon arrival, officers began investigating the source of the gunfire and quickly determined the shooting stemmed from a road rage incident that initially occurred on I-465.
Through early investigative efforts, police identified Thomas W. Ferguson as a possible suspect connected to the incident. Authorities believe the confrontation escalated from aggressive driving behavior into a situation involving a firearm.
SWAT Team Called to Suspect’s Home
After identifying Ferguson, officers, along with the Carmel SWAT team, went to his residence in an effort to make contact with anyone inside the home. Police said they made several attempts to reach the occupants but did not immediately locate Ferguson.
As part of the investigation, detectives later executed search warrants on two neighboring homes, seeking additional evidence connected to the alleged shooting. Officials did not immediately disclose what items, if any, were recovered during those searches.
Suspect Located and Taken Into Custody
Later the same day, Carmel detectives were able to track down Ferguson’s vehicle. Investigators requested assistance from the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) to safely conduct a traffic stop.
Ferguson was taken into custody without incident and transported to the Hamilton County Jail, where he was formally booked on multiple charges related to the alleged road rage shooting and firearm possession.
Multiple Charges Filed Against Ferguson
According to court records, Thomas W. Ferguson is facing a series of serious criminal charges, including:
- Unlawful Possession of a Firearm by a Serious Violent Felon – Level 4 Felony
- Criminal Recklessness with a Deadly Weapon – Level 6 Felony
- Intimidation (Threats) – Class A Misdemeanor
- Unlawful Possession of a Firearm by a Domestic Batterer – Class A Misdemeanor
The charges reflect Ferguson’s alleged actions during the road rage incident as well as his prohibited status regarding firearm possession.
Bond Set at $75,000 Cash-Only
Following his arrest, Ferguson appeared for an initial court hearing on Monday, where a judge set his bond at $75,000 cash-only. Court officials also confirmed that Ferguson was assigned a court-appointed attorney during the hearing.
In addition, the judge issued a no-contact order, restricting Ferguson from contacting any alleged victims connected to the case.
Case Assigned to Hamilton Superior Court
Ferguson’s case will be handled in Hamilton Superior Court 2, where future hearings are expected as the legal process moves forward. Prosecutors have not yet indicated whether additional charges could be filed as the investigation continues.
Authorities emphasized that road rage incidents involving firearms are treated with heightened concern due to the risk posed to motorists and the general public, particularly on busy interstate highways like I-465.
Ongoing Concerns Over Road Rage Violence
Law enforcement officials continue to warn drivers about the dangers of escalating confrontations on the road. Road rage incidents involving weapons have become an increasing concern nationwide, with police urging motorists to remain calm, avoid engagement, and contact authorities when threatened.
Investigators are still reviewing evidence and witness statements related to the shooting. No injuries were reported, but officials say the situation could have had far more serious consequences.
Do you believe road rage penalties should be harsher, especially when firearms are involved? Have you experienced aggressive driving in your area?
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