MURFREESBORO, Tenn. (WKRN) -- An investigation is underway after a "dangerous" road rage incident in Murfreesboro Wednesday morning left two vehicles seriously damaged and eventually led to one driver's arrest following a disturbance at the hospital, according to officials.
The Murfreesboro Police Department (MPD) said the situation began shortly after 6:15 a.m. on Wednesday, March 19, when the driver of a silver Honda Odyssey minivan started driving erratically on Northwest Broad Street, cutting people off, using his flashers to get through traffic, and brake-checking other drivers.
Authorities said the Honda and a white Dodge Ram pickup truck stopped at the traffic light on Florence Road. The two drivers reportedly had an encounter on Tuesday, March 18, which escalated into Wednesday's incident.
According to law enforcement, the Honda driver got out; smashed Dodge's taillight, windows, and mirror; and then rammed the truck while fleeing, significantly damaging both vehicles. In addition, the Dodge driver allegedly smashed the Honda's window, injuring his hand.
"Road rage can easily cloud driver’s judgment and results in reckless actions," said MPD Sgt. Nathan Corwin. "These types of incidents can turn a moment of frustration into a potentially dangerous decision."
Officials said the damaged Honda was found about an hour later at TriStar StoneCrest Medical Center, where the minivan driver had taken an older passenger for treatment following the road rage incident.
The Honda driver reportedly caused a disturbance, forcing hospital staff to ask him to leave. Authorities said Smyrna officers eventually took him into custody outside TriStar StoneCrest.
MPD said it has charged the Honda driver with aggravated assault and felony vandalism, but additional charges are pending by the Smyrna Police Department.
Meanwhile, the Dodge driver could potentially face misdemeanor vandalism charges, pending further investigation, according to law enforcement.
"If you are involved in a road rage incident, try to ignore the other driver and let them safely pass," Corwin said. "Trying to win an argument behind the wheel with a stranger is not worth jeopardizing your safety."
No additional details have been released about Wednesday's incident or the encounter between the drivers from the day before.