A road rage incident on I-75 northbound in Punta Gorda led to the arrest of a man after a violent altercation with another driver.
According to deputies, the altercation began when the victim, attempting to exit at Exit 164, was cut off by Joseph Ambrose, who made it difficult for him to merge safely.
Both vehicles exited the interstate, heading toward Duncan Road. The situation escalated when they stopped at a red light.
Deputies say Ambrose exited his car, approached the victim's vehicle, and used his metal watch as brass knuckles, punching the victim three times through the open window while the victim remained seated inside the car.
As the light turned green, Ambrose allegedly began following the victim. Fearing for his safety, the victim drove to the Peace and Paradise Consignment Store on Marion Avenue, where he sought refuge inside the business.
Janet Holtz, owner of the consignment store, explained that the victim was visibly shaken.
"He was hesitant to leave, but we told him to drive around the corner to see if the situation would de-escalate," Holtz said.
However, Ambrose continued to follow the victim, eventually returning to the store parking lot.
"He had no idea who the guy was," Holtz said, leading them to contact authorities.
Deputies arrived on the scene and arrested Ambrose in front of a nearby dry cleaner. He was charged with stalking, burglary and battery.
"When they pulled him out of the car, we saw the tow truck, and we knew it was over," Holtz said. "I don’t think he expected to be arrested that day."