Road Rage Incident Near Skyway Bridge Leads to Armed Standoff, Dual Arrests
A routine morning commute near the Sunshine Skyway Bridge turned volatile Wednesday after a crash escalated into an armed confrontation between two drivers along Interstate 275 in Manatee County.
The incident unfolded around 8:25 a.m. when authorities received reports of a white Chevrolet Silverado traveling recklessly in the southbound lanes. According to investigators, the Silverado sideswiped a white Dodge Ram near the South rest area, prompting both drivers to pull over on the shoulder.
After exiting their vehicles, the situation intensified when the driver of the Dodge Ram, identified as 55-year-old Paul Shannon, produced a firearm and directed it at the other driver, ordering him to the ground. Florida Highway Patrol troopers arrived shortly after and took both individuals into custody without further incident.
Shannon was transported to the Manatee County Jail and charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. The driver of the Silverado, identified as 50-year-old Gary Thompson, was also arrested and charged with driving under the influence and refusal to submit to a urine test.
Both men remain in custody as the investigation continues.
In response to the incident, the Florida Highway Patrol is emphasizing the importance of safety during roadway conflicts. Officials are urging drivers to avoid engaging in confrontations, maintain distance from aggressive motorists, and report dangerous behavior by calling 911 or dialing *FHP.
