Delaware State Police

Superintendent Colonel William D. Crotty

State Police Arrest Dover Man Following Road Rage Shooting

Date Posted: Wednesday, September 24th, 2025

Delaware State Police arrested 33-year-old Joseph Novak of Dover following a road rage incident on Korean War Veterans Memorial Highway on Tuesday morning.

On September 23, 2025, at approximately 6:30 a.m., troopers responded to Route 1 northbound, just south of South Dupont Highway, for a reported shooting. The investigation revealed that a 64-year-old Delaware man was driving a GMC Yukon Denali northbound near the Roth Bridge when a Chevrolet Silverado, driven by Novak, began following too closely.

According to statements obtained during the investigation, both vehicles were allegedly involved in aggressive driving as they continued northbound. The vehicles ultimately collided, causing damage to the right rear side of the Denali and the front left side of the Silverado. During the encounter, Novak is alleged to have fired a handgun at the Denali. Troopers observed defects on the Denali that appeared consistent with damage caused by gunfire. No injuries were reported.

Novak was taken into custody without incident. A search of his vehicle revealed a legally owned handgun. He was then taken to Troop 2, where he was charged with the offenses listed below, arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 2, and released on a $2200 secured bond.

Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony (Felony)
Reckless Endangering First Degree (Felony)

The Delaware State Police Troop 2 Major Crimes Unit is continuing its investigation. 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.