A late-night drive on a busy Fort Worth corridor turned into a shooting that has left one driver in critical condition and not expected to survive, according to police. Investigators say a suspected road rage run-in ended with gunfire between two moving vehicles last night.
Police say shots were fired while both cars were moving
Fort Worth officers were called around 11:40 p.m. to the 3000 block of Mansfield Highway after a confrontation between two vehicles at the intersection of Mansfield Highway and Seminary Drive, WFAA reports.
Investigators say someone in the suspect vehicle opened fire on the victim's car as both vehicles headed west on Seminary Drive, striking the front-right passenger area. The wounded driver pulled over while the shooter sped off. Officers from neighboring Forest Hill were already in the area and reached the scene before Fort Worth units arrived.
The victim was rushed to a hospital in critical condition and was not expected to survive, police said.
Where it happened
The shooting unfolded along the 3000 block of Mansfield Highway near Seminary Drive, a heavily traveled stretch that has seen a troubling share of violent incidents involving drivers in recent months. Earlier in May, a deadly road-rage confrontation on I-35W put a spotlight on growing concerns about violence on Fort Worth’s highways.
Investigation and witness appeal
Fort Worth police say the incident "appears to be isolated," but detectives are treating it as a possible road rage shooting and are canvassing the area for security video and witnesses. According to WFAA, no arrests had been announced, and investigators are asking anyone with information or cellphone footage to contact the department.
Detectives are reviewing any available video and statements in an effort to identify the shooter and determine what exactly sparked the confrontation.
Possible charges
What prosecutors ultimately file will depend on how the case develops. If the victim dies, the shooter could face a murder charge under the Texas Penal Code. If the victim survives, potential charges include aggravated assault or deadly conduct, depending on the findings about intent and the use of a deadly weapon. See Texas Penal Code §19.02 and Section 22.02 for the statutory language.
Police have not released any suspect description or further details as the investigation continues. This story will be updated as more information becomes available.
