Tauranga road rage: Man charged after allegedly brandishing knife at motorist

Police have charged a man after an alleged road rage incident in Tauranga. Photo / NZME

A man has been charged relating to an alleged road rage incident in Tauranga where a driver brandished a knife at another motorist.

On May 20, police received reports from the public about the manner of driving of a utility vehicle, including an instance where the driver allegedly brandished a knife at a motorist.

Inspector Logan Marsh said this week’s arrest comes after significant police inquiries to locate the alleged offender.

Police executed a search warrant at a Welcome Bay address this week.

Western Bay of Plenty district relieving area commander Inspector Logan Marsh. Photo / Supplied

A 52-year-old man was arrested on Wednesday and appeared in Tauranga District Court yesterday, charged with operating a motor vehicle recklessly, and possession of an offensive weapon.

He has been remanded in custody to reappear on July 11.

“We’d like to thank the public for the information they provided, which was a key component to our investigation,” Marsh said.

“Our teams have worked to locate the person responsible, and I’d like to acknowledge their hard work.

“Police will continue to take action where we can against any dangerous driving activity on our roads,” he said.

Police continue to urge anybody who witnesses any dangerous or illegal behaviour to report it to police.

Call 111 if it is happening at the time you are calling, or make a report via 105 if it is after the fact. Information can also be reported anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

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