Photo: deepblue4you / iStock / Getty Images
A Brewerton man, Robert J. Budd, was arrested following an alleged road rage incident on Interstate 81 in Cortland County on Friday (August 29). According to the New York State Police, the 26-year-old was charged with driving while intoxicated, menacing, and reckless driving.
The incident involved three vehicles and was reported to the Cortland County 911. A driver claimed that Budd, operating a pick-up truck, was driving recklessly and pointed a firearm at them. Another pick-up truck was also reportedly involved in the incident. Troopers intercepted and stopped the vehicles on I-81 south in Homer.
An investigation revealed that Budd was intoxicated, with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.16%, which is twice the legal limit in New York. He was found in possession of three legally owned handguns. Troopers conducted Standardized Field Sobriety Tests, confirming his impairment. The operator of the second pick-up truck was ticketed for misdemeanor reckless driving.
The Cortland County Sheriff’s Department assisted the troopers at the scene. Budd's arrest highlights ongoing concerns about road safety and the dangers of driving under the influence.