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SYRACUSE, NY — A 43-year-old man who fatally shot another driver during a road rage incident in downtown Syracuse will not face criminal charges after an Onondaga County grand jury determined he acted in lawful self-defense.
As reported by Syracuse.com, the incident occurred on April 23 near the intersection of West Street Arterial and West Fayette Street. Video evidence reviewed by the grand jury showed that 61-year-old Ezell Hicks Jr. exited his vehicle, retrieved a large chef-style knife, and advanced toward the other driver’s car with the knife raised. The shooter, who remained inside his vehicle, fired three shots from a 9mm handgun through the open window when Hicks was within five feet of the driver’s side door.
The shooter and a passenger stayed at the scene and cooperated with police. The firearm used was legally owned, and the shooter has no law enforcement background. Due to credible threats uncovered during the investigation, the District Attorney’s office has declined to release the shooter’s name, reversing an earlier decision to do so.
This case highlights the importance of understanding self-defense laws, particularly the justification for using deadly force when faced with an immediate threat. Remaining in the vehicle and responding only when confronted with a weapon was a critical factor in the grand jury’s decision. Lawful gun owners should be aware of their rights and responsibilities to ensure their actions are legally defensible.
There’s a lot missing from this story. Was the victim unable to simply drive away? That would have been the most prudent action if available. And what started the confrontation in the first place?