Road rage escalates to gun threat, 100 mph escape in Kennewick
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- Police allege road rage incident led to 100 mph speed on Clearwater Avenue.
- Suspect Talon Amsbaugh booked on suspicion of assault after allegedly brandishing firearm.
- Kennewick police urge drivers to report aggression, avoid direct confrontation.
What reportedly started with a driver “brake-checking” in traffic Tuesday afternoon in Kennewick, turned into an armed confrontation and a 100-mph dash down Clearwater Avenue, police said.
Talon Amsbaugh, 34, and another driver were heading east on Clearwater about 7:20 p.m. when Amsbaugh stopped suddenly, forcing the driver behind him to avoid hitting his Alfa Romeo sports car, said Commander Isaac Merkl.
When the drivers reached the light at Columbia Center Boulevard, the other driver started yelling at Amsbaugh, who allegedly pointed a gun at him, said Merkl. When the light turned green, Amsbaugh sped away, reaching an estimated 100 mph on Clearwater.
The other driver called 911 to report the road rage threat.
Police found Amsbaugh near the Rite Aid at the corner of Clearwater Avenue and Highway 395. He told officers that he felt threatened and grabbed the gun, but didn’t point it at the other driver, Merkl said.
Amsbaugh was booked into the Benton County jail on suspicion of second-degree assault. His driver’s license had been suspended. He’s been released after posting a $10,000 bond.
Kennewick police advise people not to confront other drivers and instead call 911 or the non-emergency dispatch number 509-628-0333.
“It’s always the safest to back away,” Merkl said. “There’s been many situations where a firearm is produced over a minor traffic complaint.”