An 85-year-old man from Michigan was viciously attacked and sent to the hospital after a road rage incident in a Kroger parking lot. The incident occurred last week when Judo Whittaker, the elderly victim, was involved in a confrontation with 55-year-old John Kreitner, who allegedly became enraged after Whittaker pulled out in front of him too slowly.
The violent encounter has shocked the community, with police calling the actions “completely unacceptable.”
The Road Rage Attack
According to Whittaker, the confrontation began after he pulled out of the parking lot at a Kroger in Dearborn on the Fourth of July. Kreitner, upset about the slow maneuver, honked his horn and began yelling at Whittaker, calling him names and making obscene gestures.
Whittaker recalled the encounter, saying, “He pulls beside me beeping his horn like a raging maniac and calling me names.”
The situation quickly escalated when Kreitner allegedly ran toward Whittaker’s car and got “only an inch away” from his face. Whittaker, clearly frustrated, told Kreitner to “get your face out of my face.”
The altercation soon turned physical, with Whittaker saying he was knocked to the ground and injured. The elderly man later required a hip replacement due to the severity of the fall.
The Aftermath and Investigation
Dearborn Police responded to reports of the road rage incident near Michigan Avenue and Nowlin Street, in the vicinity of the Kroger parking lot. Whittaker was rushed to a local hospital with serious injuries. Surveillance footage from nearby businesses and witness statements helped lead authorities to identify Kreitner as the suspect.
Kreitner was arrested on July 5, and police emphasized that such acts of violence would not be tolerated. Dearborn Police Chief Issa Shahin stated, “Such violence is completely unacceptable in our city and we will use all resources to pursue justice for victims and their families.”
Witnesses and local businesses that provided surveillance footage were praised for their assistance in the investigation.
Legal Actions and Charges
Kreitner was arraigned in the 19th District Court on Monday, facing charges of aggravated assault. He was ordered held on a $20,000 cash bond. The case highlights the dangers of road rage and serves as a reminder of the consequences of letting frustration escalate into violent behavior.
The attack on Whittaker has raised awareness about the potential dangers of road rage, especially when it leads to violent confrontations. The community is hoping for swift justice, and the case serves as a warning about the consequences of allowing anger to dictate one’s actions.
As Kreitner awaits further legal proceedings, Whittaker’s recovery continues, and local authorities remain committed to ensuring that justice is served.
