The Florida Highway Patrol has arrested two drivers in reference to a road rage incident that began in Polk County on Interstate 4 near State Road 539 (Kathleen Rd).
Troopers were able to contact both drivers in Osceola County near State Road 536 (World Center Pkwy). FHP received a call at 7:37 AM in reference to a report of two vehicles in a road rage incident while traveling eastbound on Interstate 4 near State Road 539.
A witness continued to follow the vehicles and report them to law enforcement.
The first vehicle was identified as a grey Hyundai being driven by Phillip Robert Marks (DOB: 10/14/1989) of Tampa, Florida.
The second vehicle was identified as a blue Chevy Silverado being driven by Donald Orlando Coppola (DOB: 07/10/1978) of Mulberry, Florida.
Troopers were able to conduct a traffic stop on both vehicles on Interstate 4 in Osceola County. Troopers detained both drivers.
The investigation revealed that both drivers throwing beverages at each other’s vehicles. They were also driving recklessly by almost crashing into each other, running off the roadway, and stopping abruptly in the travel lanes.
Mr. Marks was in possession of a pellet bun which was a realistic replica of a .45 caliber handgun. He was observed by the witness pointing the replica gun at Mr. Coppola’s vehicle and appearing to shoot at it.
No damage was observed on the vehicle that would indicate it was struck pellets.
Phillip Robert Marks was arrested and charged with Throwing Deadly Missiles (F.S.S. 790.19), Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon (F.S.S. 784.021) and Reckless Driving (F.S.S. 316.192).
Donald Orlando Coppola was arrested and charged with Throwing Deadly Missiles (F.S.S. 790.19) and Reckless Driving (F.S.S. 316.192).
Both subjects were booked into the Polk County Jail.