SOUTHINGTON, Conn. – Robert Misericordia, 27, of Hartford, has been arrested after allegedly threatening drivers with a gun and machete during a series of road rage incidents on Interstate 84. The incidents led to a high-speed pursuit, evasion, and a manhunt that spanned several hours.
Misericordia turned himself in to State Police on Wednesday after a dramatic sequence of events on Tuesday morning. The incidents began just before 9 a.m. when state police received reports of a man driving an orange Honda Civic who was involved in aggressive behavior on I-84 in Waterbury. According to the initial caller, the driver got out of his vehicle near exit 17, carrying a machete, and began kicking and damaging another car, including breaking off the side mirror.
As state police responded, another report came in describing similar behavior near exit 15, where Misericordia allegedly kicked at the driver’s door of another car. By 9:45 a.m., reports indicated that the driver was displaying a firearm while engaging in further aggressive actions, threatening to kill other drivers.
When a trooper attempted to stop the car, Misericordia swerved and fled, sideswiping the trooper’s car. The chase continued as Misericordia drove at speeds of 90-100 mph through populated areas, with no regard for public safety.
After evading authorities in Waterbury, police located the vehicle at a rest area in Southington. Although they believed Misericordia was inside, the car was empty, but officers discovered the machete on the front passenger seat. Police then learned that Misericordia had contacted State Police, claiming to be recovering from back surgery at his Hartford home, and stated that his car’s plates had been stolen.
Further investigation, including cell phone data, placed Misericordia at the scenes of the reported incidents. When police arrived at his home, he initially stopped cooperating, prompting officers to obtain arrest and search warrants. Misericordia ultimately turned himself in to Troop A in Southbury, where he admitted his involvement in the road rage incidents.
Misericordia faces numerous charges, including:
First-degree threatening
Second-degree breach of peace
Interfering with police
First-degree criminal mischief
Reckless driving
Misuse of plates
Operating without insurance
Driving the wrong way on a divided highway
Engaging police in pursuit
Misericordia is scheduled to appear in Waterbury Superior Court on Thursday.
