NEWARK, Del. (WPVI) — A 46-year-old man was fatally shot during a road rage incident on Tuesday afternoon at the intersection of Salem Church Road and Old Baltimore Pike.
Delaware State Police reported the shooting occurred at approximately 1:30 p.m. Jason Paoletti, of Bear, was riding his motorcycle when he stopped behind a Hyundai Elantra at a red light. A verbal altercation ensued after Paoletti moved in front of the Hyundai.
Authorities said the front-seat passenger, identified as 28-year-old William Simpler Jr. of Saint Georges, allegedly shot Paoletti before the vehicle fled the scene. Paoletti was found on the roadway with multiple gunshot wounds and succumbed to his injuries after being transported to a local hospital.
Simpler has been charged with first-degree murder and possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony. He was arrested without incident at his home and is being held on a $1.5 million cash bond.
Witnesses reported confusion at the scene, initially believing Paoletti was experiencing a medical emergency. Bystanders responded when Paoletti indicated he had been shot. One witness noted the chaos as they attempted to call 911, while others rushed to assist.
The Delaware State Police Homicide Unit is continuing to investigate the incident. Further details will be released as the investigation unfolds.