BENSALEM, Pa. (WPVI) — A motorcyclist was shot by a police officer after a road rage incident escalated into a violent confrontation in Bensalem, Bucks County, over the weekend.
Authorities say the situation began when a motorcyclist threatened another driver with a gun. The incident occurred around 5:45 p.m. Saturday near Woodhaven Road and Route 13.
According to police, a driver and a motorcyclist were traveling northbound on Route 13 when they got into a dispute. The motorcyclist, identified as 44-year-old John Mathis, allegedly threatened a couple in a white car.
The victims told police that Mathis pointed a gun at them and followed them down Bristol Pike, prompting them to call 911.
“Just imagine if you’re driving with your family in your car, and some guy pulls up on a motorcycle and points a gun at your head,” said Director of Public Safety William McVey.
Video obtained by Action News shows the officer arriving on the scene and positioning the cruiser between the victim’s car and the motorcycle.
“The suspect on the motorcycle abruptly accelerated and slammed into the side of the police cruiser, and then fled on foot armed with a handgun,” McVey said.
Police say Mathis did not comply with commands, and a veteran officer opened fire.
“He then had to make the decision to fire his weapon to end the threat,” said McVey.
Action News has learned that Mathis has a history of road rage. Just last week, he was arrested following an incident in Levittown where he is accused of causing a crash and then using a baseball bat to smash the windshield of a car.
Police say Mathis has several other arrests dating back to 2001.
“He’s someone who has continuously victimized residents of Bucks County,” McVey said.
No other injuries were reported. Police say a black handgun was recovered at the scene.
Authorities say Mathis had a GPS monitor on at one point this year but cut it off. He was also wanted on an outstanding warrant at the time of Saturday’s incident.
The Bucks County District Attorney’s Office is handling the investigation and will determine any charges that need to be filed.
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