Road rage incident sends man to hospital

BAINBRIDGE — Two men each claim the other is at fault in an apparent road rage incident Saturday evening on U.S. 36.

Putnam County Sheriff’s Deputy Hunter Gambill, with the assistance of Deputy Derek Line, investigated the incident that sent a Russellville man to the hospital.

Jerry A. Williams, 45, Russellville, was westbound on U.S. 36 in a 2003 GMC Sierra. Jeffrey A. VanBibber, 50, Thorntown, was also westbound in a 2006 Dodge Caravan.

VanBibber told Gambill he had just had a confrontation with Williams and was trying to go home on westbound U.S. 36, though from the police report, it does not appear that “home” was in Thorntown.

VanBibber said Williams was in front of him trying to prevent him from leaving. He said that after several times of trying to pass Williams, he proceeded to pass the truck on the left side but Williams came into the eastbound lane and struck his van.

Afterward, VanBibber said Williams chased him down 36. At one point, VanBibber said he realized he was traveling almost 100 mph.

VanBibber said he then tried brake checking Williams to get him to leave him alone. In doing so, Williams’ truck hit VanBibber’s van.

VanBibber said he then got away from Williams, called 911 and proceeded home.

However, Williams told Gambill he was being chased by VanBibber and that as the other man passed him, he hit his truck and pushed it off the road.

Williams said that VanBibber then stopped, put his van in reverse, and slammed into the front of his truck.

That is when Williams said he called 911.

Williams complained of pain and was transported to Putnam County Hospital by Putnam County EMS. VanBibber said his shoulder hurt but he did not wish to be seen by EMS.

Neither vehicle was towed. Gambill estimated damage at $10,000-$25,000.

As of Monday evening, no criminal charges had been filed in the incident.