Dover Man Arrested in Road Rage Shooting

MIDDLETOWN, Del. – Delaware State Police have arrested a man from Dover in connection with a road rage shooting that took place Tuesday morning.

At approximately 6:30 a.m. on Sept. 23, troopers responded to Route 1 northbound following reports of a shooting. A preliminary investigation by authorities found that a GMC Yukon Denali was traveling northbound near the Roth Bridge when a Chevrolet Silverado began following it closely.

According to statements given to police, both vehicles continued north, driving in an aggressive manner. The vehicles ultimately collided, with the front left side of the Silverado striking the right rear side of the Denali. During this encounter, the driver of the Silverado allegedly fired a handgun at the Denali. At the scene, troopers observed defects on the Denali that appeared consistent with damage caused by gunfire.

The Denali was being driven by a 64-year-old man from Delaware. No injuries were reported by either party.

The Silverado was being driven by 33-year-old Joseph Novak of Dover. He was taken into custody by police without incident. During a search of his vehicle, police located a legally owned handgun.

Novak was charged with first degree reckless endangerment and using a firearm to commit a felony. After being arraigned, he was released on $2200 secured bond.

DSP Troop 2 Major Crimes Unit is continuing an investigation into this incident. Anyone who witnessed the incident or has relevant information is asked to contact Detective B. Timmons at (302) 365-8434. Information may also be provided by sending a private Facebook message to the Delaware State Police or contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333.