A Loxahatchee man is charged with attempted first-degree murder after a road rage incident Wednesday was followed by an argument and multiple gunshots.
Road Rage Incident and Gunshots Shake Loxahatchee Community
Robert Lee Harris, 38, faces one count of attempted first-degree murder with a firearm.
Attempted First-Degree Murder Charges Filed in Aggravated Road Rage Case
It started shortly after 10:50 p.m. Wednesday when the victim’s girlfriend, who claimed Marsy’s Law, called 911; telling dispatchers her boyfriend had been shot during a road rage incident and a three-year-old child was with them.
Details of the Road Rage Incident and Argument Leading to Gunshots
According to a probable cause affidavit WPBF 25 News reviewed, the victim’s girlfriend told Palm Beach County deputies a white truck swerved into their lane, seemingly to force their UTV into the roadside canal as they were traveling southbound on B Road. The suspect was traveling northbound.
The victim told deputies he turned around to follow the suspect, and they came to a stop outside of the front gate to a residence on B Road. He claims he approached Harris to ask why he swerved into their lane.
Investigation Uncovers Evidence and Contradictions in Suspect’s Statements
The victim’s girlfriend believes Harris tried to swing at the victim but was unsuccessful. Harris would later tell deputies that the victim punched him in the head and face three times. Deputies report not seeing evidence consistent with that claim.
After that argument, the victim’s girlfriend heard gunshots.
Harris initially denied involvement but later told deputies he fired those shots to “scare him off,” according to the probable cause affidavit.
Suspect’s Arrest Reveals Incriminating Findings at the Scene
In the arrest documents, detectives report finding a spent 9 mm shell casing at the scene and a red substance consistent with blood spatter on the suspect’s truck.
Harris denied having a firearm to PBSO deputies, but additional 9 mm ammunition, a magazine consistent with a 9 mm firearm, and a gun box for a 9 mm firearm were found in his camper.
Victim’s Condition Unknown: Updates Awaited in Hospital
A bond hearing for Harris has not yet been held.
The victim was taken to Saint Mary’s Medical Center, and there is no update on his condition.