Glens Falls Man Arrested After Road Rage Incident Involving Projectile Launcher on I-87

By David LaGuerre-

A dangerous road rage encounter escalated into a felony arrest on July 3, 2025, when New York State Police arrested Joshua P. Alexander, 43, of Glens Falls, NY, for allegedly discharging a weapon during a traffic dispute on I-87 in Saratoga Springs. The incident left one vehicle damaged and nearly caused further harm when an uninvolved car was struck during the chaotic aftermath.

A Moment of Road Rage Turns Criminal

According to authorities, at approximately 6:27 p.m., State Troopers responded to a report of a vehicle crash on State Route 29 in Saratoga Springs. Preliminary reports indicated that a firearm had been discharged from one vehicle, striking another.

Investigators determined that Alexander had been involved in an altercation with another driver while traveling northbound on the Northway. During the conflict, Alexander allegedly brandished what appeared to be a handgun and discharged a projectile that shattered the window of the other vehicle.

This action incited a pursuit, with the victim’s vehicle following Alexander’s in an apparent attempt to confront or apprehend him. During the chase, the victim’s vehicle collided with a third, uninvolved vehicle, prompting a 911 call.

Imitation Firearm Seized, Charges Filed

Saratoga Springs Police quickly located Alexander and his vehicle near Broadway and safely brought him into custody. The weapon used in the incident was later identified as a SABRE .68 Caliber home defense projectile launcher — a less-lethal weapon that fires BB-like projectiles. Despite its non-lethal designation, such a weapon can cause serious injury or property damage and can easily be mistaken for a real firearm during high-stress situations.

Alexander was processed by the State Police at SP Saratoga and arraigned in Malta Town Court. He was charged with:

• Criminal Mischief in the Third Degree (a felony)
• Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Fourth Degree
• Menacing in the Second Degree
• Reckless Endangerment in the Second Degree

He was released on his own recognizance following arraignment.

Law Enforcement Emphasizes Caution

In a press release, New York State Police emphasized the broader dangers of road rage, which can rapidly escalate into life-threatening situations. “Road rage incidents like the one described in this release are senseless and could result in severe injury or death,” the statement read. “Partaking in these types of criminal behaviors is not just a safety concern for drivers involved, but the passengers in their vehicle along with the surrounding public.”

State Police provided clear DOs and DON’Ts for drivers confronted with road rage:

DO:

• Be a good witness: note the vehicle’s make, model, color, and license plate.
• Remove yourself from the situation safely.
• Call law enforcement as soon as it’s safe to do so.

DON’T:

• Engage or provoke the aggressive driver.
• Follow or chase the offending vehicle.
• Underestimate the threat of violence from others on the road.

A Wake-Up Call for All Drivers

This incident is a stark reminder of how quickly anger behind the wheel can turn criminal — or even deadly. While Alexander’s weapon was not a real firearm, the psychological terror and real-world consequences it caused were all too real.

Moreover, the involvement of an innocent third vehicle highlights how road rage can ripple out to affect unsuspecting people who have nothing to do with the dispute.

According to a 2022 AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety survey, nearly 80% of drivers admitted to experiencing significant anger or aggression while behind the wheel at least once in the previous 30 days【KEY FACTS】. Of those, one in four admitted to purposely blocking another vehicle or cutting someone off. Incidents like this demonstrate that what might start as a minor annoyance can escalate — fast.

A Legal and Moral Reckoning

While Joshua Alexander awaits his day in court, the larger question looms: how do we address the culture of aggression on our roads?

Legally, New York is tough on offenses involving imitation firearms when used in a threatening manner. Although the SABRE launcher is technically non-lethal, when it’s used as a weapon in a public conflict, the law treats it seriously — especially if it causes property damage or endangers public safety.

But beyond legal consequences, there’s a moral obligation we all share: to de-escalate. In a society where tempers are short and stress levels are high, exercising a little patience behind the wheel might not just spare you a ticket — it could save a life.

So the next time you’re cut off, tailgated, or gestured at, remember this incident. And let it be a lesson in restraint, responsibility, and the very real cost of letting rage take the wheel.

Have thoughts about road rage laws or personal experiences to share? Leave a comment or join the conversation on social media.