A road rage confrontation on a Florida highway led to seven felony charges against a Bonifay man last weekend. Blackie Alvarez, 33, allegedly pointed a handgun at multiple drivers along U.S. 331 on Feb. 8. The Walton County Sheriff’s Office responded to reports of a man brandishing a firearm at approximately 1 p.m. Deputies located the white Ford Explorer near DeFuniak Springs shortly after receiving the complaint.
Alvarez exited his vehicle when police arrived on the scene. Also, he removed a black handgun from his waistband and placed it on top of the SUV. Officers also discovered two metal knuckles inside his pockets during the subsequent search. Alvarez refused to speak with investigators following his arrest.
Witnesses told deputies that Alvarez began speeding and aggressively honking at their vehicle. The situation escalated when Alvarez sped around the victims. He then came to a complete stop directly in front of their car. Alvarez allegedly pulled out his firearm and pointed it at them from that position. The victims immediately contacted law enforcement.
Alvarez now faces two felony counts of false imprisonment. He also faces two felony counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. One felony count accuses him of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Two additional counts charge unlawful carry of a concealed weapon. Authorities also cited him for driving without a valid license.
The road rage confrontation unfolded along a busy highway corridor. U.S. 331 serves as a major route through Walton County. Traffic incidents frequently occur along this stretch of roadway. This particular encounter could have resulted in tragedy. Authorities credited the victims for quickly reporting the incident. Their prompt action allowed deputies to intercept Alvarez before anyone sustained injuries.
Florida law imposes severe penalties for firearm offenses involving convicted felons. The possession charge alone carries significant prison time. Aggravated assault with a deadly weapon adds additional years of incarceration. False imprisonment charges further compound Alvarez’s legal exposure. He remains in custody pending a bond hearing.
The Walton County Sheriff’s Office released minimal details about Alvarez’s criminal history. Officials confirmed his convicted felon status prohibits legal firearm possession. Investigators continue examining evidence from the traffic stop. They seek additional witnesses who may have encountered Alvarez that afternoon. The road rage confrontation highlights growing concerns about aggressive driving incidents. Law enforcement urges drivers to avoid engagement with aggressive motorists. Victims should note vehicle descriptions and call police immediately.
