A Des Moines man surrendered to police after a road rage incident involving a handgun, according to multiple reports. Bradley Ratkovich, 43, was arrested following a crash where he allegedly pointed a Glock 9 mm handgun at two teenagers, leading to charges including assault and harassment. The incident, captured on video, highlights the escalating tensions in local traffic disputes.
The confrontation unfolded around 2:30 p.m. on Friday in Des Moines, Iowa, after a minor crash. Witnesses reported that Ratkovich, 43, exited his vehicle and pointed a handgun at the occupants of another car, including an 18-year-old driver and a 16-year-old passenger. Police arrived and ordered him to drop the weapon, which he complied with, according to footage shared on X by witness Joshua Barzon. Put the gun down,
an officer shouted, as Ratkovich placed the firearm on the ground before being taken into custody.
Self-Defense Claims and Legal Proceedings
Ratkovich’s attorney, Kent Balduchi, disputed the police account, asserting his client acted in self-defense. Balduchi claimed Ratkovich and his son were injured in the crash and that the other driver became aggressive after admitting to lacking insurance. Mr. Ratkovich did not display or draw his firearm until he felt endangered,
Balduchi said, adding that his client would file a notice of self-defense. Court records show Ratkovich pleaded not guilty and waived a preliminary hearing, with a bond set at $12,000 cash. His next court appearance is scheduled for August 4, with an arraignment set for September 9.
The incident has drawn attention to the broader risks of road rage, with Barzon describing the encounter as road rage almost turned deadly.
He noted the intersection where the crash occurred is part of his daily commute, urging drivers to be careful out there.
Police confirmed the arrest and secured the weapon without incident, though the crash investigation remains ongoing as they await traffic camera footage.
Witness Accounts and Public Reaction
Barzon’s video, shared on X, shows Ratkovich standing near the occupied sedan, pointing the handgun at the occupants. As police approached, the officer’s commands echoed: Step back! Get back. Put both hands on top of your head now.
The footage also captures Barzon urging Ratkovich to “relax, bro,” before the suspect complied. The video, which has circulated widely, underscores the volatile nature of traffic disputes and the potential for violence.
A police statement noted that no shots
were fired and that Ratkovich’s actions did not involve erratic or out of control behavior.
Ongoing Investigation and Community Impact
The Polk County Sheriff’s Office is still reviewing evidence, including witness statements and video recordings, to determine the full context of the incident. Investigators are awaiting traffic camera footage, which could provide additional clarity. Meanwhile, Ratkovich’s case remains in the legal system, with his defense team preparing to challenge the charges.
Balduchi highlighted that the other driver had previously been cited for driving without a valid license and insurance, though no resolution was noted at the time of the crash.
Related reading
