Driver facing charges in road rage incident

(Update)

Halton police are calling it an “atrocious” act of road-rage. A 27-year-old man from Acton is facing several charges after throwing a steel block into a passing car carrying a couple and their two young children. The incident happened as the cars were driving along Highway 7 near Trafalgar Road in Halton Hills. 27-year old Edwin Hepburn is now facing charges.

On this two lane highway from Acton to Georgetown, a family encountered a man in a pick up truck following them too closely.

When the highway became four lanes, the truck pulled up beside the car and words were exchanged.

Staff Sgt. Robert Lloyd is with Halton Police: “Subsequent to that heated exchange, the driver of the pick up threw an object at the other vehicle, causing the glass to shatter. The object struck the driver in the upper back area. As a result of the glass shattering it covered two young children.

The victims were able to get the license plate and immediately drove to police.

The term road rage is colloquial and isn’t a crime. But when someone acts so negatively they harm someone, that’s the crime.

Staff Sgt. Lloyd: “Sometimes road rage will respond to the driver operating the vehicle in a dangerous manner, colliding with another vehicle on purpose.

Drivers in Acton were shocked to hear of the crime.

“I heard about the incident this morning. It’s really upsetting. It’s really — I can only imagine what it feels like to experience that.

They also say driver frustration is unavoidable, but it’s no excuse for violence.

“I’m sure 99% of the people have at one point and time it’s about learning how to not react.

“I’ve seen it. My one friend come up and had rings on his hand and keyed up their car and stuff.

Police say if you encounter an angry driver don’t engage them. If you feel threatened or see someone being threatened immediately call police and get their license plate number.

The children in the car were treated for shards of glass striking their face and eyes. 27-year old Edwin Hepburn faces four charges including dangerous driving and assault with a weapon. He was released with a promise to appear his court date is August 4.