Detective Arrested Following Alleged Road Rage Incident Involving Teens

Detectives from the NYPD have arrested an officer accused of pointing a loaded pistol at three 16-year-old boys during a road rage incident last week.

Detective John O’Connell, 36, was reportedly traveling east on Route 6 in Somers around 8:30 PM Thursday. According to the Westchester County Attorney General, the teenagers faced some delays due to traffic changes, which seemingly angered the officer behind them, prompting him to brake abruptly.

It’s alleged that O’Connell followed the teens, rolling down his passenger window and shouting, “He has a gun!” according to court documents.

Prosecutors claimed he continued driving his 2024 Honda aggressively toward the boys.

O’Connell, a resident of Patterson, New York, faces charges that include endangering the welfare of a child, second-degree menacing, and criminal possession of a weapon.

He pleaded not guilty and was released on his own recognizance after appearing in Somers Town Court on Friday. A hearing is scheduled for Monday.

Judge Michael McDermott issued a protection order for the teenage victims, all of whom are from Westchester and Putnam counties.

In response to the incident, O’Connell has been suspended without pay by the NYPD, according to a department spokesperson.

Westchester County District Attorney Susan Kakers commented, “It’s unacceptable for anyone to turn traffic complaints into a fatal threat. My office will hold this defendant accountable for his outrageous actions, as outlined in court.” She also commended the teenagers for their bravery in handling the situation.